Mikha Morrison, 27, was sentenced to three years and four months in prison after pleading guilty to one count of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered. The incident occurred in the early hours of February 15, when Morrison poured petrol from a green jerry can over a £45,000 Mercedes-Benz parked outside a home in Great Billing, Northampton.
The blaze, captured on CCTV, quickly engulfed the Mercedes and spread to a Kia Stonic parked alongside it. Residents called emergency services, and nearby homes were evacuated as firefighters battled to control the flames. No one was injured during the attack.
Morrison was apprehended by officers who spotted him in a taxi shortly after the incident. A rucksack containing the jerry can was found nearby, and Morrison himself reportedly smelled of petrol. He later admitted his guilt at Northampton Crown Court.
Detective Constable Abigail Jones of Northamptonshire Police stated that the incident was dangerous and praised the swift response of the Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, which prevented the fire from spreading further. Jones expressed satisfaction with the sentence, hoping Morrison reflects on his actions. The victim's support throughout the investigation was also acknowledged, with the hope that the conclusion and sentence bring some comfort.