EXCLUSIVE: Mother Arrested After Horrific Blaze Tears Through Christchurch Home
A 28-year-old mum-of-two, named locally as Stacey Jackson, is in police custody after a devastating fire ripped through a semi-detached house in Druitt Road, Christchurch, on Monday night.
Neighbours’ Heroic Rescue Amid Blazing Inferno
Just after 9pm, the fire erupted, sparked allegedly by a candle setting bedding alight in the living room. Flames tore through the property, with six fire engines and around 40 firefighters from Dorset, Wiltshire, and Hampshire battling the blaze.
Local heroes, 61-year-old lorry driver Victor Salway and his 17-year-old granddaughter Debbie, spotted the fire after hearing banging nearby. Victor grabbed a garden hose to douse the flames while neighbour Phil Brolan used a fire extinguisher to create a safe path.
“I thought it was just neighbours arguing, but then Victor went outside and saw the house was on fire,” Debbie told us.
“I managed to get inside and help Stacey, who was trapped on the stairs. We were really worried about the two kids who usually live here.”
Family Left Homeless – Puppy Saved
The fire left a father and his two children homeless, destroying treasured family memories beyond repair.
A seven-week-old puppy was rescued and given oxygen by fire crews before being handed to a vet for smoke inhalation treatment.
Smoke was visible for miles, even seen from the nearby Christchurch Road McDonald’s. Firefighters worked relentlessly with breathing apparatus, four main jets, and two hose reels to bring the inferno under control.
Arrest and Aftermath: Chaos and Concern
Stacey Jackson was pulled from the burning house by neighbours and treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. She did not need hospital care but was soon under arrest on suspicion of arson.
As police led Jackson to a squad car, a crowd cheered and clapped. However, the arrest quickly turned chaotic when she became violent, banging her head inside the vehicle. Paramedics were called again after she collapsed and she was taken to Bournemouth Police Station.
A Dorset Police spokesperson said:
“Dorset Police were called at 9.17pm on Monday following reports of a fire at an address in Druitt Road, Christchurch. Initial reports suggested children might still be inside, but it was quickly confirmed they were safe with family elsewhere.
A puppy has been treated at a veterinary clinic. The cause of the fire is under investigation and a cordon remains in place.
The 28-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of arson and is assisting officers with enquiries.”
Community Left Reeling
Neighbours say they are shocked, with some suggesting Jackson may be facing mental health struggles. For now, a once happy family home lies in ruins, as the investigation continues.
