Serial arsonist jailed after setting fire to a man’s new van and terrifying a neighbourhood
Victim praises quick police action
Andrew Watson, 61, was shaken awake by his van’s blaring alarm in the early hours in Brightlingsea. Rushing outside, he caught a man fiddling with car door handles nearby, only to find his van engulfed in flames shortly after. Thankfully, he managed to move two other vehicles to safety before calling the police.
Caught on CCTV and arrested on the spot
Residents quickly spotted the suspect trying car doors. CCTV caught him sneaking behind Mr Watson’s van on Red Barn Road before heading to another location. Officers, working with locals, swiftly arrested 123 Colbourne, who was found carrying lighters, a large stash of change, and a high-vis jacket – all suspicious items pointing to arson.
Jailed for six years after reckless rampage
Detected on January 12, Colbourne was locked up for six years. Detective Constable Ben Stammers slammed his “utterly reckless” acts that endangered lives and left residents to cope with the damage.
“No one deserves to lose their property to the actions of arsonists like Colbourne,” Stammers said. “We acted fast thanks to vital intelligence from the public and hope the victims find some comfort knowing he’s behind bars.”
Victims left devastated
Mr Watson admitted the attack has crushed him, describing how the arsonist affected not just strangers, but also his own family. Another victim, speaking anonymously, voiced their despair:
“You left out compassion, humanity and consequence. Now we face the daunting, exhausting task of rebuilding what you destroyed – all for no good reason.”
This shocking blaze spree rocked the once peaceful Brightlingsea community but brought swift justice thanks to eagle-eyed neighbours and dedicated police work.
