Neighbour Murdered and Burned in Brutal Attack
Michael Bryant murdered 68-year-old Alan Wyatt before setting fire to his flat in a desperate attempt to cover his tracks. But CCTV caught Bryant brazenly using the victim’s bank card in shops and a fast food joint the very same morning. Forensic evidence later sealed his fate.
The 35-year-old, formerly of Firethorn Close, pled guilty to murder at Maidstone Crown Court on 1 September 2020. He faces a minimum 28 years behind bars.
Brutal Crime Scene and Chilling Evidence
Kent Police were called to a blazing flat on Firethorn Close around 10.30am on 14 February 2019. Firefighters were already at the scene when officers discovered Mr Wyatt dead inside with horrific facial injuries—wounds that fire alone could not cause.
Witnesses reported Bryant acting threateningly towards the victim before the fire. Detectives uncovered a bloodied cushion, hammer, and knife in a washbag tossed on Bryant’s landing—his flat sat right above Mr Wyatt’s.
They also found stolen items: Mr Wyatt’s birth certificate, house keys, and even frozen food taken from his freezer—all inside Bryant’s home.
Captured on CCTV and Arrested Covered in Blood
CCTV footage from a nearby convenience store showed Bryant using Mr Wyatt’s bank card less than an hour after the fire. Police tracked him down sleeping rough on the same street just after midnight the next day.
At arrest, blood stains and DNA on Bryant’s face matched the victim’s. The evidence was overwhelming.
Family’s Pain and Call for Justice
“Alan’s life was tragically cut short by the wilful actions of a so-called friend and neighbour who murdered a frail, defenceless, wheelchair-bound amputee in the most brutal way,”
“We were deprived of a proper goodbye. We are haunted forever by this horrific act of evil.”
“You made us relive the horror, facing weeks of the gruesome details you only spared us by eventually admitting guilt. We want you to feel the pain we endure for the rest of your life.”
— Alan Wyatt’s family
Detective Chief Inspector Tristan Kluibenschadl said: “Bryant committed an appalling crime on a vulnerable man. Justice has been served and a violent offender is off the streets.”
The victim’s family praised the police and legal teams for their support and dedication during the trial, highlighting their professionalism and compassion.
“Time may heal, but memories – both good and bad – last forever,” they added.
