miércoles, 28 de noviembre de 2012

I set off explosion that killed boy, 2: Neighbour admits gas blast which blew up ... - Mirror.co.uk

A neighbour today admitted killing a toddler in a gas explosion which destroyed eight homes.

Father-of-six Andrew Partington, 27, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of two-year-old Jamie Heaton, who was watching TV when the huge blast reduced his house to rubble in June.

Judge Andrew Gilbart QC told him at Manchester crown court: "There is only one possible sentence in this case, a custodial sentence."

It is believed Partington had cut his own gas pipes following a row with his partner, causing a build-up of deadly fumes which caused the explosion the following morning.

Jamie was killed when the blast from Partington's house next door ripped through his home in Shaw near Oldham, Greater Manchester, as his mum Michelle was hanging out washing and dad Kenny was out.

Jobless Partington, who appeared in court via video link from prison where he is on remand, will be sentenced in February.

The judge ordered psychiatric reports to determine whether he poses a danger to the public and to assess any mental health problems.

Michelle and Kenny Heaton, parents of Jamie Heaton, leave Manchester Crown Court
Distraught: Parents Kenny and Michelle

Partington, who was remanded in custody again, also admitted destroying neighbouring houses.

Adam Roxborough, defending, asked for a medical report on his client, who suffered 40% burns and back injuries in the blast.

Jamie's parents sat in the public gallery holding hands for the 20-minute hearing. They were flanked by ­relatives who wiped away tears as the defendant admitted his guilt.

Michelle and Kenny declined to comment after the case.

The couple had paid a moving tribute to their son after the blast, which led to several houses in the street having to be demolished.

They said: "Our little man Jamie was a happy little boy, mischievous and full of laughter.

"He loved his freedom, going to the park and playing on the slide. He adored his family, his brother and sister Jack and Jodie.

"He is in a safe place and we know he is being well looked after by those around him."

* How our sister website the Manchester Evening News is reporting the story.

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