Two Teens Jailed Over Granny’s Fatal Firework Blaze
Kai Cooper, 19, and a 17-year-old boy were sentenced at the Old Bailey for their part in the tragic death of 88-year-old Josephine Smith in Romford. Cooper got eight and a half years, while the younger lad was jailed for three years and eight months.
Firework Posted Through Letterbox Sparked Deadly Fire
On 28 October 2021, Mrs Smith was found dead at her home on Queens Park Road, Harold Wood. Emergency services arrived after reports of a fire, but sadly she had died from smoke inhalation. Police arrested Cooper and the then-15-year-old after recovering a firework from the scene.
Evidence showed the pair setting off fireworks recklessly in public before targeting Mrs Smith’s house. The firework was posted through her letterbox, ignited the blaze, and caused the fatal smoke inhalation.
Family Demand Stricter Firework Laws
“Losing Mum this way has haunted us all,” said Josephine’s son, Alan Smith. “She had many happy years ahead. The past 18 months have been devastating. We hope today’s sentence helps us begin to heal.”
“We’re pushing for stricter firework sales rules – like raising the age limit to over 25. The way those fireworks were sold that night haunts us all.”
“The Harold Wood community and heroic firefighters deserve huge credit for their efforts. We thank the police and prosecution team for their professionalism and compassion during this awful case.”
Police Condemn ‘Mindless’ Acts
Detective Inspector Louise Caveen slammed the pair’s reckless behaviour. “Josephine died needlessly in her own home – where she should have been safest. The fire was started by a lit firework pushed through her letterbox by the younger boy, encouraged by Cooper.”
“These mindless acts caused devastating consequences. Our thoughts remain with Josephine’s family as they struggle with their immense loss.”
