Man jailed for putting lives at risk after causing explosion at his Mere home
The property is being rebuilt due to the extensive damage caused
A man has been jailed after putting multiple lives at risk by causing an explosion at his home in Mere.
In the early hours of 16th December 2024, Martin Clayton, 73, poured petrol in the living room of his rented home on Caddy Lane and set it alight, resulting in a significant explosion that damaged the building.
The sound of the explosion woke nearby residents, who contacted emergency services.
Clayton, now of Dudnance Lane, Pool, was located within the property uninjured, however the explosion caused extensive damage, requiring the property to be completely rebuilt with assessment works still ongoing.
He was subsequently charged with arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered.
Although he initially pleaded not guilty, he changed his plea ahead of his trial.
At Salisbury Crown Court yesterday Clayton was jailed for three years and one month.
DC Martyn Powell said: “The actions of Mr Clayton were incredibly dangerous and put not only his own life but those of his neighbours and the attending emergency services at risk.
“There was an immediate large-scale response from Wiltshire Police, South Western Ambulance Service Trust and Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue service due to the severity of the incident - thankfully there were no reported injuries, including Mr Clayton.
“I would like to praise the neighbours who, in the early hours of the morning, having been awoken by the explosion, immediately contacted the emergency services, helping to preserve life and prevent further damage.
“My thoughts are also with the home owner, who was renting the property to Mr Clayton and has had to go through an ordeal of significant distress and financial loss due to his actions. I hope that the sentence passed today provides some closure to them.
"Finally, I would like to commend the police, fire, and ambulance personnel who responded to this incident, demonstrating exceptional courage by placing themselves in harm’s way to protect nearby residents from further harm.
“Despite the hazardous circumstances, they acted with compassion and professionalism to deal with the incident expeditiously.
“The response also highlighted excellent inter‑agency cooperation, with effective communication and coordination throughout a highly challenging incident."
Area Manager Ant Bholah said: “Incidents of this nature highlight the importance of strong joint working between emergency services.
“Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service worked closely with Wiltshire Police and partner agencies to safely manage the incident and reduce the risk to the community.
“Following the incident, we also continue to support partner organisations in the recovery and investigation phase, recognising the impact such events can have on residents, property owners, and responders alike.”