Arsonist who stated he could 'sort the fire out' feels the heat and is jailed for 3 years and 7 months

Today (3 November 2023), Jason Madegwa (DOB: 22/06/1971) of Old Birley Street in Manchester appeared at Manchester Crown Court and was sentenced to 3 years and 7 months in jail after he set fire to his own house.

On 19 September 2022, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service were called to a fire at a block of high-rise flats with reports of one person still inside. 

A witness later reported to the police that they had heard the fire alarm going off in Madegwa's flat and smelled smoke. They went investigate and found Madegwa standing in his doorway with his back to a fire blazing in his flat. 

Madegwa refused to leave and stated he would 'sort (the fire) out.'

Due to his erratic behaviour, Madegwa was initially detained under the mental health act and transported to hospital for an assessment and to ensure his welfare. 

He was subsequently released from hospital and taken into custody.

CSI attended and gathered evidence demonstrating the fire was likely started by setting fire to his bed. Madegwa was subsequently charged for arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered and he subsequently pleaded guilty to this offence.

Detective Constable Lucy Hatton of GMP Longsight Division said: "Madegwa's actions that night put himself and others at serious risk of harm. Fortunately no one was seriously injured but this could easily have had tragic consequences.

"I hope the sentencing demonstrates our commitment to keeping communities safe and also serves as a warning to others who would endanger other people's lives with their reckless behaviour."