A man who caused a massive explosion by blowing up a row of houses after a domestic dispute has been sentenced to 11 years in prison. Paul Solway deliberately ignited a gas pipe at his partner’s residence in Eden Street, Alvaston, Derby, resulting in a destructive blast that demolished two neighboring homes and severely damaged several others.
CCTV footage released by Derbyshire Constabulary captured the dramatic moment when the front of the house was blasted into the street, endangering passing vehicles. Solway and his dog had to be rescued from the debris, with Solway sustaining serious burns and spending weeks in the hospital for treatment.
The explosion not only caused extensive property damage but also forced residents to evacuate their homes for days. Solway’s partner, Joanne Waterfall, who was not present during the incident, lost all her possessions except for one outfit. Solway, 58, pleaded guilty to six counts of property damage endangering lives during a court hearing in January.
During his sentencing at Derby Crown Court, Solway, appearing via video-link from HMP Nottingham, expressed no remorse for his actions. His partner, Ms. Waterfall, criticized the sentence as inadequate, considering the devastation caused. The court heard that Solway had disconnected a gas pipe and set a chair on fire, triggering the explosion.
Detective Constable Shaun Carter of Derbyshire Police highlighted the lasting impact of Solway’s reckless behavior on the community, emphasizing the distress and disruption caused to the affected families. While Solway claimed to have no memory of the incident and denied tampering with the gas main, investigations confirmed deliberate interference with the gas supply led to the explosion.
As part of his sentencing, Solway was issued a restraining order preventing him from contacting Ms. Waterfall. The judge condemned Solway’s actions, noting the significant financial and emotional toll on the community. Solway was sentenced to 11 years in prison, with the requirement to serve at least two-thirds of the term before parole consideration.
