Man Jailed for Life After Setting Partner on Fire in Bedford
Savage Shaun Thomas, 48, of Foster Street, Bedford, has been handed a life sentence for brutally attacking his partner and setting her ablaze in their home.
Horrific Attack Caught on Jury Verdict
The chilling incident happened just after midnight on January 22, 2019. During a heated argument, Thomas doused his partner’s clothes with a flammable liquid while she sat on the sofa. Without hesitation, he ignited her clothing with a lighter. Flames quickly engulfed her and the sofa.
Terrified, the woman fled outside where a quick-thinking neighbour rushed to help extinguish the fire and called emergency services.
Evidence Sealed His Fate
- The victim suffered severe burn injuries across her body.
- Police and fire officers found the back door key broken, likely to trap her inside.
- A butane canister taped to a firework was discovered at the scene, suggesting more planned evil.
Convicted Despite Denial
Thomas pleaded not guilty but was found guilty by a jury at Luton Crown Court last August of arson with intent to endanger life, attempted grievous bodily harm, actual bodily harm, and possession of explosives with intent.
On Friday, January 31, he was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of seven years behind bars.
This violent attack has left the victim scarred physically and emotionally, and justice has finally been served.
