Man Jailed for Life Over Deadly Reading Flat Blaze
Hakeem Kigundu, 32, was handed a whole life sentence at Reading Crown Court for deliberately setting fire to his block of flats in Rowe Court, Reading. The horrific blaze left two dead and others badly hurt.
Fire Tragedy Killed Two, Injured Many
Kigundu admitted to two murders, two counts of grievous bodily harm, and arson with intent to endanger life after the December 15, 2021 fire. The fire tore through the building, trapping residents and causing widespread destruction.
Victims Richard Burgess, 46, and Neil Morris, 45, sadly lost their lives. Two others were seriously injured, and all residents lost their homes and belongings.
Rampage Fueled by Anger Over Eviction
Detective Inspector Sally Spencer revealed that Kigundu’s landlord had served him an eviction notice after complaints about late-night noise from music and computer games. The eviction deadline was the very day he set the fire.
Kigundu also lost his job during this time. Police say these setbacks sparked his rage, leading to the deadly act.
Chilling Evidence of Premeditation
- Kigundu bought 50 litres of petrol from various stations in the lead-up to the fire.
- He created a sinister email address, [email protected].
- An audio note was found on his phone stating: “All the actions I am about to take are warranted, believe me.”
The accused poured petrol into the stairwell during the early hours, knowing residents would be asleep and unable to escape.
Justice for Victims and Their Families
“The families of Neil and Richard have endured unimaginable pain waiting weeks for the recovery of their loved ones. The building damage made immediate retrieval impossible,” said DI Spencer.
She added: “My thoughts, and everyone at Thames Valley Police, remain with the families and all residents who lost their homes and possessions at Rowe Court.”
