Arsonist Terrorises Sunderland Neighbourhood with Nine Car Fires
Kenneth Sherrington, 30, will face sentencing next month after admitting to a shocking spree of arson attacks across the Grangetown area of Sunderland. Over six weeks, from December 2019 to January 2020, Sherrington set fire to nine vehicles, leaving residents rattled and fearing for their safety.
Random Attacks Leave Community on Edge
The brazen arsonist targeted cars at random, striking mostly under cover of darkness. His reckless fires woke homeowners with explosive bangs, as neighbours desperately banged on doors to warn of the blazes. Among the victims was a disabled man who lost his wheelchair when his car was torched, cutting off his mobility in an instant.
Police Crack Case with CCTV and Hard Evidence
The Grangetown and Ryhope neighbourhood officers dug through hundreds of hours of CCTV footage to link Sherrington to each fire. They caught him wearing the same clothes during an arrest as he wore when setting one of the blazes. Despite refusing to cooperate in interview, Sherrington pleaded guilty on May 12 to nine counts of arson causing criminal damage.
Community Praises Police and Hopes for Justice
“Kenneth Sherrington randomly targeted victims in his own community at a time when the majority of people across the North-east were all pulling together and looking out for each other,” said Sgt Craig Sherriff of Northumbria Police. “His actions were selfish and dangerous, setting vehicles on fire under the cover of darkness while his victims were fast asleep.”
“He could have easily killed somebody had the blaze spread to nearby houses. I am delighted that he has now been convicted of his crimes.”
“Special credit goes to PC Emily Milne and the team who pieced together the evidence to bring this dangerous offender to justice. This sends a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated in Northumbria.”
One victim told the court: “My wheelchair was in my car at the time of the fire and this has meant not only am I without my car, but my mobility has been dramatically restricted as my wheelchair has been destroyed. It is quite scary that someone is prepared to set fire to property in such a dangerous location. This incident could have been a lot worse if I had not been woken up.”
Sherrington, of Villette Road, Sunderland, remains in custody and will be sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court on June 29.
