Summary
A 21-year-old Ukrainian man named Roman Lavrynovych appeared in court, charged with starting fires at two homes and a car connected to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. He faces three charges of arson with the intent to endanger life and is in custody, awaiting a further hearing at the Old Bailey scheduled for June 6.
Key Facts
- Roman Lavrynovych, a builder and roofer, is charged with three counts of arson.
- The charges relate to fires at two properties and a car linked to Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
- Lavrynovych did not enter a plea and will appear in court again on June 6.
- He was assisted by an interpreter in court and confirmed his personal details.
- Police say the fires involved a slow-burning accelerant.
- The fires occurred in north London, with emergency services responding to each incident.
- A fire at a home in Kentish Town caused damage but no injuries; the home is rented to the prime minister's sister-in-law.
- A previously-owned car of Sir Keir, now sold to a neighbor, was set on fire on May 8.
- The Metropolitan Police's Counter Terror Command is investigating due to the case's connection to a public figure.
