Two men have been sentenced to prison for setting fire to a block of flats in Gloucester while residents were still inside.
Kenneth Moore, 50, formerly of Bedford Street, Gloucester, and John Johnstone, 57, of no fixed address, were handed a combined sentence of 12 years and two months at Swindon Crown Court on March 31.
The fire broke out at around 10 a.m. on Monday, June 30, 2025, in the hallway of the Bedford Street flats. Police were called following reports from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service that the blaze appeared to be deliberately started. Firefighters evacuated residents and extinguished the fire, while two individuals were taken to hospital for smoke inhalation but were later discharged.
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Investigators confirmed that an accelerant had been used to ignite the fire, causing extensive damage to numerous flats and belongings. Several residents were displaced and had to move into temporary accommodation due to the severity of the damage.
An arson investigation by Gloucestershire Police’s Criminal Investigation Department led to the arrests of Moore and Johnstone later that day on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. Both initially denied the charges. Johnstone later pleaded guilty before the trial commenced.
Kenneth Moore’s trial began on December 18, 2025, at Swindon Crown Court, where a jury unanimously found him guilty of arson with intent to endanger life. He was remanded for sentencing.
During sentencing, His Honour Judge James Townsend highlighted aggravating factors including the deliberate planning, use of an accelerant, and the danger posed to multiple people. Addressing both men, the judge said: “It was the two of you acting together, setting fire to an occupied block of flats with people inside. Neither of you has been frank about your motives.”
Moore received seven years in prison, with the judge emphasizing that he posed a significant risk of causing serious harm in the future. Johnstone was sentenced to five years and two months, with the judge noting his lesser but still substantial involvement and opportunity to withdraw.
Investigating officer T/DC Dewar from the CID stated: “This premeditated arson attack could have easily resulted in multiple fatalities. While thankfully no one was severely injured, the fire caused major disruption, distress, and displacement for the residents. The flats remain uninhabitable due to the damage caused. Moore and Johnstone now face the consequences of their reckless actions, and their sentences send a clear warning about the dangers and consequences of such criminal behaviour.”