Teen Terror: Firework Attack Leaves Granny’s Home Ablaze in Romford
Kai Cooper, 19, recklessly warned, “people are going to get terrorised tonight” before he and a 17-year-old mate bought fireworks and lighters in Romford, Essex.
Fireworks Target Innocent Locals and Property
The troublemakers set off fireworks in the street, aiming them at startled pedestrians, a local restaurant, a tavern, and parked cars. Cooper handed a Megaburst firework to his 17-year-old companion, who shoved it through pensioner Josephine Smith’s mailbox.
Granny’s Home Catches Fire in Deadly Prank
On October 28, 2021, Josephine Smith was asleep in her bed when the firework exploded, setting her house ablaze. The vulnerable granny was helpless against the fire spreading downstairs.
The victim was a vulnerable person who was in no position to protect or save herself from the fire that had been ignited downstairs in her home,” Judge Mark Dennis KC said during sentencing at the Old Bailey.
Justice Served: Jail Time for Firework Fiends
Cooper was convicted of manslaughter and arson, while his accomplice pleaded guilty. Both admitted to affray. Cooper got six and a half years behind bars plus two years probation, and the 17-year-old was locked up for three years and eight months.
Romford residents can breathe easier now that these reckless teens are off the streets – but the scars of that fiery night will linger.
