Arson Horror in Southampton: Man Sets Flat Door Ablaze
Samuel Dolan, 25, from Northam Road, Southampton, pleaded guilty to arson with intent and threats to destroy property at Salisbury Crown Court on October 27.
Fire Traps Tenants Inside Their Flat
At around 2am on July 25, Dolan set fire to the front door of a first-floor flat on Castle Street. He was known to the occupants.
The residents were woken by thick black smoke filling the flat. When they tried to escape, they found the only entrance and exit engulfed in flames.
Heroic Rescue by Passersby
Trapped inside, they cried for help from a first-floor window and were lucky to escape via ladders thanks to quick-thinking members of the public nearby.
Detective Constable Jeremy Horner said: “Dolan’s actions caused significant damage and put lives in great danger. The occupants had no way out except the window. It was fortunate that members of the public were nearby to help rescue them quickly and safely.”
“I am pleased that a custodial sentence has been passed which reflects the seriousness of Dolan’s behaviour.”
