Brave Cop Crashes Into Burning House to Rescue Man Threatening Self-Harm
Sergeant James Cattermole leapt into action in Sellindge near Folkestone, May 2021, risking life and limb to save Christopher Pain from a fiery fate. With backing from PC Louis Southon, Sgt Cattermole battled smoke and barricades to drag the 57-year-old to safety. Pain has since been jailed for four years, plus two years on licence, after pleading guilty to arson at Canterbury Crown Court on 16 July.
Quick-Thinking Hero
His Honour Judge Simon James praised Sgt Cattermole’s guts and swift thinking during sentencing, highlighting the officer’s bravery in a life-threatening blaze.
Emergency Call to Fire and Threats
- Officers called to Brook Lane Cottages at 12.40am on 3 May after reports Pain was armed and threatening to harm himself
- Property was locked down; Pain refused to speak and hurled abuse
- Suddenly set fire to the living room, trapping himself inside
Daring Rescue Under Smoke and Barricades
Sgt Cattermole smashed a window, climbed in, and dragged Pain to the back door—only to find it locked. Pain resisted as the smoke thickened. Sgt Cattermole tried the front door but faced cardboard box barricades. Finally, PC Southon smashed the back door window, letting the duo escape the smoke-filled inferno.
This heroic rescue stopped what could have been a deadly tragedy, leading to Pain’s conviction and sentencing.
