Arsonist Convicted of Murder After Setting Fire That Killed Pensioner
A cold-blooded arsonist who deliberately torched a West Malling home knowing a 65-year-old pensioner was inside has been found guilty of murder. Simon Childs, 52, poured petrol and set fire to a Spitfire Road property, tragically killing his mother-in-law, Jacqueline Allen.
Nightmare Blaze on Spitfire Road
On the evening of 17 November 2018, Childs broke into the house around 9pm. He grabbed petrol containers from a shed and ignited a fire in a lean-to beside the kitchen. Emergency crews rushed to the scene and found Mrs Allen inside. She later died in hospital.
Another occupant escaped by jumping from a first-floor window but suffered a fractured toe and other injuries.
Childs Arrested Shortly After
Police found Childs minutes later at a nearby address on Hurricane Close and arrested him. At the time, he was banned from the Spitfire Road property by court order due to a previous assault conviction against a former partner.
A Trail of Threats and Abuse
Investigators uncovered chilling evidence that Childs had threatened to torch a caravan belonging to a man he suspected was involved with his ex-partner. He was heard telling others he would “burn the house down” and bombarded her with dozens of abusive calls and messages demanding to know her whereabouts.
Despite the evidence, Childs denied involvement during police interviews. However, phone records put him away from his Hurricane Close address during the fire, claiming he was in his van smoking cannabis.
Justice Served at Maidstone Crown Court
Childs pleaded not guilty to murder and attempted murder but was convicted on both charges on 22 May 2019. He faces sentencing on 24 May.
“Simon Child’s actions were deliberate and calculated,” said Detective Chief Inspector Patrick Milford of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate. “He broke into the property knowing people were inside, then started a devastating fire with tragic consequences. Local residents bravely tried to help, but the fire was too intense. This verdict won’t ease the heartbreak caused by such senseless loss, but it ensures Childs will spend many years behind bars.”
Mrs Allen’s family released a heartfelt statement: “There are no words to express the sadness and loss of our beloved mother and grandmother. Jackie would have given her last breath for us—and she did that night. Our whole world was ripped away. We are now trying to rebuild as a family and need time to grieve.”
