Nigerian Teen Jailed in UK for Manslaughter
A UK court sitting at Old Bailey on Monday sentenced a 16-year-old Nigerian teenager to six years in prison for the manslaughter of 76-year-old Robert Price, who died from smoke inhalation and burns after a firecracker was thrown into his home.
According to a statement released by the UK Metropolitan Police, the affected child and another teen approached Price’s home in Dagenham, London, on July 27, 2024, with a firework.
Initially deterred when the retiree appeared, they returned later, and the teen climbed onto a gas meter, lit the firework, and threw it through the window of Price’s residence.
Emergency services arrived at the scene and discovered Price’s body after forcing entry. A post-mortem confirmed he died from fire fumes and burns.
The teen was arrested within two days, with CCTV evidence linking him to the incident. He later identified his accomplice, who was also arrested.
Both teens pleaded guilty to manslaughter on February 11, 2025. The Nigerian teen received a six-year sentence, while his accomplice was sentenced to two years and eight months.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Clarke of Specialist Crime North described the act as “completely mindless and reckless,” emphasizing its devastating consequences.
