Attempted Murder Charges After Stockbury Valley Blaze
Two men have been charged with four counts of attempted murder after a mobile home fire in Stockbury Valley set vehicles ablaze in the early hours of 5 May. Kent and Essex Serious Crime detectives swooped on the scene and arrested Billy Smith Sr, 52, and Billy Smith Jr, 28, both from Kemsley’s Miller Close.
Fire, Arson, and Firearm Charges
The father and son now face serious charges: four counts of attempted murder, arson, and possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life. Billy Smith Sr remains in custody ahead of his court appearance at Maidstone Crown Court on 4 June. Billy Smith Jr was remanded to appear via virtual link at Medway Magistrates Court on 8 May.
More Arrests Made, Bails Granted
Police have also detained five others connected to the incident, all known to each other:
- 54-year-old man from Stockbury, arrested for assault, bailed until 1 June
- 23-year-old man from Stockbury, arrested for assault, bailed until 1 June
- 20-year-old man from Stockbury, arrested for assault, bailed until 1 June
- 22-year-old woman from Sheerness, arrested for arson and criminal damage, bailed until 31 May
Enquiries are ongoing as officers dig deeper into the deadly blaze and its aftermath.
