Man in court charged with arson - The Redditch Standard

Man in court charged with arson

Redditch Editorial 13th Oct, 2014 Updated: 18th Oct, 2016   0

A WINYATES man has appeared in court following a fire in a block of flats.

Michael Knight from Winslow Close appeared at Worcester Magistrates’ Court today (Monday) charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

The 25-year-old was arrested on Saturday (October 11) following a fire on Winslow Close where up to 60 residents were evacuated and one person was taken to hospital for smoke inhalation.

It is believed the fire started in the middle of the block and firefighters worked hard to stop the flames from spreading to adjoining properties.




Smoke damage has affected other properties and several people have had to be re-housed in alternative accommodation.

He was remanded in custody to appear at Worcester Crown Court in January next year.


Rebecca Love, Safer Neighbourhood Team Insp, said: “This arson attack will have caused concern in the local community and we would like to reassure residents that fortunately no-one was seriously injured during the incident and that someone has been charged in connection with this crime.”

A spokeswoman from Redditch Borough Council said two officers were on site on Saturday night to assist the police and fire service, and support residents distressed by the incident.

“Fortunately, only one other resident was unable to return to their accommodation and it is hoped they will be able to move back into the property within the next couple of days.

“Our repairs and maintenance team are currently working on site and our locality officers are liaising with and supporting residents living in the building and surrounding areas.”

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