Man Sentenced to Life for Setting Partner on Fire in Shocking Bedford Attack
A man has been handed a life sentence after brutally attacking his partner and setting her ablaze inside their Bedford home.
Flames and Fear in Midnight Horror
Shaun Thomas, 48, of Foster Street, Bedford, was sentenced on Friday 31 January at Luton Crown Court. The jury found him guilty of arson with intent to endanger life, attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, actual bodily harm (ABH), and possession of explosives with intent.
In the early hours of 22 January 2019, during a heated argument, Thomas poured a flammable liquid over his partner’s clothes while she was sitting on the sofa — then set her on fire with a lighter.
Flames Engulf Sofa and Woman
Her clothes and the sofa quickly went up in flames. The terrified woman ran outside, where a quick-thinking neighbour helped douse the flames and called emergency services.
She suffered severe burns to multiple parts of her body.
Disturbing Evidence Found at Scene
Police and fire officers discovered the back door key had been broken off in the lock — a clear attempt to trap the victim inside. They also found a butane canister rigged with a firework, hinting at a sinister plan.
Justice Served After Denial
Thomas denied all charges but was found guilty by a jury after a trial last August. He will serve a life sentence with a minimum term of seven years behind bars.
