Northampton man jailed following dangerous car fire incident
Mikha Morrison sentenced for arson with recklessness as to endanger life
A 27-year-old Northampton man has been sentenced to three years and four months in jail after pleading guilty to setting a car on fire in the Great Billing area earlier this year.
Mikha Morrison ignited a black Mercedes 200 on 15th February, which subsequently spread to a nearby Vauxhall vehicle, leading to the evacuation of neighbouring homes.
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service arrived on the scene promptly, preventing further spread of the fire.
Investigations revealed Morrison pouring liquid from a green Jerry can onto the Mercedes and lighting it with a match, captured by camera footage.
Police stopped Morrison in a taxi on Wellingborough Road.
Despite his attempt to flee, he was detained and arrested, with a rucksack containing the Jerry can found nearby.
Morrison also smelled of petrol.
Charged with arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered, Morrison pleaded guilty at Northampton Crown Court in April.
Earlier this month, he was sentenced to serve more than three years behind bars.
Lead investigator Detective Constable Abigail Jones commented:
“This was an incredibly dangerous incident, and we are extremely fortunate that Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service responded so quickly and were able to prevent the fire from spreading further. If not, the consequences could have been far more severe.”
Jones expressed hope that Morrison reflects on his actions during his time imprisoned and thanked the victim for their support in the investigation.
“This incident had a huge impact on him and I hope the conclusion of this case and significant sentence provides him with some comfort.”