Woman who started fire at block of flats put residents’ lives at risk

VULNERABLE people’s lives were put at risk when a woman set fire to her flat by torching her curtains.

Clare Gill was one of seven people who had learning difficulties or mental health problems requiring round-the-clock care or support who were living at a multioccupancy property in Gateshead. On November 8 last year, a support worker heard the fire alarm going off and found smoke coming from the room occupied by Gill while she stood outside it.

The room was on fire so all of the people living there were evacuated. Omar Ahmad, prosecuting, told Newcastle Crown Court: “While waiting for the fire service, the defendant informed them that she had started the fire by setting a lighter to the curtains.”

The fire service found a developing blaze in the ground floor flat and put it out. The source of the fire was the curtains, which had been deliberately torched. The cost of repairing the damage was around £20,000 and the service provider also lost more than £2,000 in rent.

The court heard the offence had caused “great anxiety” to other residents and caused significant challenges for staff. Mr Ahmed said: “It was a block of flats and the lives of multiple people were endangered.”

Gill told police she started the fire because she wanted to end her life but after watching the flames for a short time she changed her mind and went to find a support worker. Mr Ahmad said: “She admitted her actions endangered the lives of other residents but said this had not been her intention.”

Gill, 52, of no fixed address, who has 20 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered and was sentenced to two years suspended for two years with rehabilitation.

Jamie Adams, defending, said Gill was vulnerable and required supported accommodation.