Stephen Dale, 47, has been sentenced to 19 years in prison for the manslaughter of Daniel Gardner, 36, following a tragic fire at Gardner’s flat in Highters Heath, Birmingham. The blaze, ignited in the early hours of September 19 last year, was a deliberate act fueled by Dale’s grudge against Gardner, his girlfriend’s former partner.
Dale doused the door of Gardner’s home at Saxons Way with petrol and set it alight, trapping Gardner inside. Despite his efforts to escape the flames, Gardner sadly succumbed to the fire. The incident also forced a neighbour to be evacuated by firefighters.
At Birmingham Crown Court on July 6, Dale was found guilty not only of manslaughter but also of reckless arson endangering life. An extended licence period of five years was added to his sentence. Dale’s co-conspirator, 19-year-old Tyler Phythian, who assisted in the arson, was sentenced to four years’ detention. Phythian was acquitted of any homicide charges but found guilty of arson. He had also admitted to assault in a separate incident earlier this year.
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The court heard that Dale had been in a relationship with Gardner’s former partner, with whom Gardner shared two children. Despite allegations made by Dale’s partner about Gardner mistreating the children, Judge Andrew Smith KC highlighted that no evidence supported these claims.
Judge Smith detailed that Dale planned and executed the arson, intending to frighten or harm Gardner, though not necessarily to kill him. Phythian, who was seen fleeing the scene carrying a petrol can, was judged to have provided support throughout the incident.
The judge reflected on the terrifying ordeal Gardner faced as he tried unsuccessfully to shield himself from smoke and flames before collapsing. The mental anguish endured by Gardner was also acknowledged.
Under his sentence, Dale must serve at least two-thirds of his 19-year term—approximately 12 years and eight months—before eligibility for release. Phythian may be released after serving 40 percent of his sentence.