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Arson charge after Gillingham blaze
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An investigation into a Gillingham house fire has led to a man being charged with arson.
Kent Police attended a fire on Canterbury Street at about 5.30am on Wednesday 12 August 2026.
The fire was believed to have been deliberate and, following enquiries, officers located and arrested a man.
Charged
John Pearson, 44, of no fixed address, was later charged with arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered.
He appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 25 August where he was released on court bail until his next hearing on Monday 21 September.
Can you help?
Enquiries are ongoing into the incident and the identity of the property’s owner. Anyone with relevant information should call 01634 792209 quoting referencing 46/132266/26.