Man Jailed for 11 Years After Causing Gas Blast That Destroyed Partner's Home
Paul Solway, 58, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison after admitting to causing a massive gas explosion at his partner Joanne Waterfall's home in Alvaston, Derby. The incident occurred on June 10 last year following a domestic dispute where Waterfall had asked him to leave. Solway disconnected a gas pipe and ignited a chair, triggering an explosion that destroyed the terrace house and severely damaged five neighboring properties, forcing two to be demolished. While Solway suffered severe burns and required a medically induced coma, Waterfall lost all her possessions without insurance. The court heard that Solway expressed intent to harm himself and others during a 'meltdown' prior to the blast. Judge Shaun Smith KC condemned the reckless actions as devastating to the community, noting that neighbors lost savings and homes. Waterfall criticized the sentence as insufficient, stating Solway showed no remorse. A restraining order was issued prohibiting contact between the two.
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Man Jailed for 11 Years After Causing Gas Blast That Destroyed Partner's Home
Paul Solway, 58, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison after admitting to causing a massive gas explosion at his partner Joanne Waterfall's home in Alvaston, Derby. The incident occurred on June 10 last year following a domestic dispute where Waterfall had asked him to leave. Solway disconnected a gas pipe and ignited a chair, triggering an explosion that destroyed the terrace house and severely damaged five neighboring properties, forcing two to be demolished. While Solway suffered severe burns and required a medically induced coma, Waterfall lost all her possessions without insurance. The court heard that Solway expressed intent to harm himself and others during a 'meltdown' prior to the blast. Judge Shaun Smith KC condemned the reckless actions as devastating to the community, noting that neighbors lost savings and homes. Waterfall criticized the sentence as insufficient, stating Solway showed no remorse. A restraining order was issued prohibiting contact between the two.
The Guardian