Folkestone Man Charged Over Spate of Dangerous Vehicle Fires
Arson Chaos Rocks Folkestone and Hythe
Michael Harragan, 54, from Gladstone Road, Folkestone, has been arrested and charged following a string of six vehicle fires that broke out between 2am and 3.30am on Friday, 11 April 2025. The blaze locations include Canterbury Road, Walton Road, Military Road, Enbrook Valley, and Whitenbrook in Hythe.
Campervan Fire Puts Woman’s Life at Risk
The most serious charge relates to a terrifying campervan blaze in Sandgate. A woman was asleep inside when the vehicle was deliberately set on fire. Miraculously, she woke up in time to escape the flames. Harragan now faces arson with intent to endanger life.
Additional Charges: Drink Driving and Assault
Police have also charged Harragan with drink driving and assaulting an emergency worker during the incident. He appeared at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on 12 and 14 April and has been remanded in custody ahead of his next hearing.
Next Steps and Police Appeal
The case is scheduled for Canterbury Crown Court on Monday, 12 May. Meanwhile, Kent Police are investigating the full circumstances of the fires. They are urging anyone with information or CCTV footage from the areas affected to come forward.
