Reading Arsonist Jailed for Life Over Deadly Flat Blaze
Hakeem Kigundu Gets Whole Life Sentence
Hakeem Kigundu, 32, has been handed a whole life order at Reading Crown Court after pleading guilty to two counts of murder, grievous bodily harm, and arson with intent. The brutal fire he set at Rowe Court flats in Reading on December 15, 2021, claimed the lives of two men and left others seriously injured.
Deadly Blaze Ravages Reading Flats
- Kigundu lit the fire deliberately inside the block where he lived.
- The inferno trapped residents and caused major damage.
- Victims: Richard Burgess, 46, and Neil Morris, 45, both died.
- Two other residents suffered serious injuries.
- All tenants lost their homes and possessions.
- Emergency services declared a major incident at the scene.
Police Reveal Chilling Details Behind the Attack
“At about 3am on 15 December 2021, Hakeem Kigundu deliberately started a fire at Rowe Court, where he was a resident,” said Detective Inspector Sally Spencer of Thames Valley Police.
She added:
“Kigundu’s landlord had issued him an eviction notice to leave by the very day he set the fire, after complaints about antisocial behaviour like loud music. He had also recently lost his job, which apparently fuelled his rage.
“Our investigation uncovered premeditation: Kigundu bought 50 litres of petrol from multiple stations over time. He also created a sinister email account, [email protected], and left an audio note saying, ‘all the actions I am about to take are warranted, believe me.’”
Kigundu’s Arrest and Aftermath
Kigundu made no attempt to hide after the fire. He arrived at Reading Police Station and called 999 to hand himself in, before officers arrested him.
The families of the victims endured weeks of agony, unable to recover the bodies due to the severe damage to the building.
Tributes and Thanks from Police
Detective Inspector Spencer paid tribute to the families and community affected by the tragedy:
“My thoughts, and those of everyone at Thames Valley Police, remain with the families and friends of Neil and Richard and all residents of Rowe Court who lost their homes and possessions.”
