Arsonist Locks Victims in Bedroom Before Setting Southampton Home Ablaze
Shane McCarthy Jailed for Nearly Three Years
Shane McCarthy, 27, from Granby Grove, Southampton, was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison at Southampton Crown Court on Friday, 29 April. He had pleaded guilty to arson back in February for a terrifying incident on 8 January.
Broke In, Locked Victims Inside, Then Set Fire
At 1.20am, police were called after occupants in Granby Grove suspected a break-in. McCarthy forced entry through a kitchen window. The two men trapped inside locked themselves in a bedroom while McCarthy shouted outside.
When he failed to open the bedroom door, McCarthy stopped shouting. Moments later, the victims heard popping noises followed by the fire alarm blaring.
As they fled, the men saw smoke billowing and a fire raging on the kitchen stove — but McCarthy had vanished.
Police Arrest Arson Suspect Who Caused Severe Damage
Police arrived promptly, and McCarthy returned to the scene, where he was arrested. The fire damaged the cooker and hob, with heavy smoke ruining the ceilings.
This incident left the victims in genuine fear for their lives and could quite easily have had tragic consequences,” said a Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson. “By putting McCarthy behind bars, a dangerous individual has been taken off the streets. We hope this result reassures our communities that we will do all we can to get justice for victims of crime.”
Community Urged to Report Crime
If you have information about crimes or suspicious activity, contact Hampshire Constabulary via their website, call 101, or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
