Arson fiend jailed for putting families’ lives at risk
Fire set in Clacton flats hallway
Thomas McGinn, 38, from Colne Road, has been locked up for four years after sparking a dangerous fire in a block of flats on Carnarvon Road, Clacton. The blaze, started in the early hours of April 1, was deliberately lit using a magazine placed at the bottom of a communal stairway — the only escape route for two families living above.
CCTV and quick-wit cops crack case
Police were quick to act after distributing a still image of McGinn internally. One officer recognised him from a recent stop near the scene shortly after the fire began. Arrested on April 19, McGinn initially denied any involvement, despite CCTV footage clearly showing him entering the building moments before the fire started.
Strong evidence leads to guilty plea
McGinn faced courts at Colchester Magistrates’ before his Chelmsford Crown Court hearing on December 3, where he pleaded guilty to arson endangering life. The fire caused damage to carpets, walls, two pushchairs, and a child’s scooter.
Detective Sergeant Dan Smith, leading the investigation, said: “This could have had catastrophic consequences had the fire alarm not activated and the sleeping families evacuated, while the fire service dealt with the blaze.
“Thanks to a diligent investigation, Thomas McGinn was quickly identified and will now serve four years for putting lives at risk.
“The case was so strong, he had no choice but to plead guilty. This sentence should serve as a stark warning to anyone thinking of using fire to cause harm.”
Extra time added
The court also slapped an extended three-year licence onto McGinn’s sentence, ensuring he faces supervision long after release.
