Badly Burnt PC Left Fighting for Life After Petrol Attack
Blagovest Hadjigueorguiev left PC Darral Mares with horrific burns after dousing him with petrol and setting him on fire in September. The brutal attack left PC Mares with severe burns to his legs and hand.
Heroic Rescue by Colleague PC Alan Lenton
PC Mares was saved from even worse injuries by the quick thinking of his fellow officer, PC Alan Lenton. Without hesitation, Lenton dragged Mares away from the flames and rolled him in long grass to extinguish the fire. Both officers were called to a field next to Trevenson Road to help bailiffs evict Hadjigueorguiev from the land.
Despite threats to “set them on fire,” the officers approached. Hadjigueorguiev had a glass cider bottle filled with petrol and was standing near a homemade cooker with a naked flame. As police moved in, he poured petrol over the pair and ignited the liquid.
Ten Years Inside for Brutal Attack
The 30-year-old Bulgarian, who has no fixed address, pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm on PC Mares and attempting the same on PC Lenton. He was sentenced to ten and a half years behind bars at Truro Crown Court by Judge Robert Linford.
Bailiffs Matthew McLaren and Peter Temlett bravely restrained Hadjigueorguiev until police and emergency services arrived. PC Mares was rushed to hospital by Cornwall Air Ambulance and is now recovering.
PC Mares Thanks Supporters and Medical Staff
“My recuperation process is still ongoing, but I’m healing well and expected to recover without further hospitalisation,” said Mares. “I want to thank everyone who helped me and my family, especially the incredible NHS staff at Treliske and the Derriford Burns Unit.
“I’ve been overwhelmed with support from colleagues, friends, and even strangers as far away as Australia. Their kindness has been humbling and a welcome distraction.”
Detective Inspector Daniel Massey added: “This attack shows the dangers police face every day. Thanks to the teamwork of officers, bailiffs, and emergency crews, justice was served.”
PC Lenton: ‘Cowardly Attack That Won’t Be Forgotten’
“The events of that day will live with us all forever,” said PC Lenton. “I look forward to seeing Darral back in the office with his humour and camaraderie intact. My thanks also go to my family and all those who sent messages and gifts. Their support has been massive.”
