Man Charged with Four Counts of Attempted Murder After Fiery Stockbury Blaze
Police have charged a man with four counts of attempted murder following a dramatic fire at a mobile home in Stockbury Valley. Emergency crews were called in the early hours of Saturday, 5 May, to find a mobile home ablaze along with several nearby vehicles also set on fire.
Billy Smith Sr. Held on Serious Charges
Billy Smith Sr, 52, from Miller Close in Kemsley, was arrested at the scene. He now faces four attempted murder charges, plus one count of arson and possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life. Smith has been remanded in custody and will appear at Maidstone Crown Court on 4 June.
Five Others Arrested Amid Ongoing Investigation
- A 54-year-old man from Stockbury, arrested on suspicion of assault, has been bailed until 1 June pending further enquiries.
- A 23-year-old man from Stockbury, also arrested on suspicion of assault, is bailed until 1 June.
- A 20-year-old Stockbury man, arrested for assault, has been granted bail until 1 June.
- A 28-year-old man from Kemsley, arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and arson, remains in custody as enquiries continue.
Known Associates Under Scrutiny
All individuals involved reportedly know each other. Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate officers are actively investigating the case, with enquiries ongoing.
