Man sentenced for arson in Norwich

A man has been sentenced to an indefinite hospital order after setting fire to a property on Hall Road, Norwich.

Pip Long, aged 54 and of Southwell Road, Norwich appeared at Norwich Crown Court today (Thursday 5 December) after pleading guilty to arson with intent to endanger life and three counts of arson reckless as to whether life is endangered at a previous hearing.

The sentence follows an incident on Monday 26 June 2023 when Long set fire to an address on Hall Road, Norwich. The fire spread to three neighbouring properties, damaging four terraced houses as a result.

Long knew the occupant of the targeted address was extremely vulnerable and had limited mobility. The victim happened to not be at home at the time of the attack. Luckily, no one was injured as a result of his actions. 

Officers were called to the address at 11.33pm to assist the fire service. A witness recognised Long leaving the address after hearing a loud bang and seeing the front door of the victim’s address alight.

Long was arrested at his home address within an hour of the fire starting. He was taken to Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning. He was later charged and remanded into custody.  

CCTV enquiries showed Long purchasing fuel from a petrol station earlier that day. He could also be seen walking towards the victim’s address, carrying the fuel.

Today (Thursday 5 December) he was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order.

Investigating officer, DC Stephen Donovan said: “Long set fire to that house, knowing the victim would struggle to get out and likely be trapped. It is through sheer luck that a fatality was avoided.

“His disregard for their life and those in the neighbouring properties is quite astonishing. The effect his actions have had are incredibly damaging with residents still unable to return to their homes.

“I would like to thank the local community for providing support and care for those affected. I hope that this sentence helps all those affected to take the first step as they begin to rebuild their lives.”