Angry customer tried to set fire to bank over blocked payment
Jason Duncan-King doused himself and staff in petrol and had matches in his hand when police arrived
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A man who tried to set fire to a bank after a payment was blocked from his account has, been jailed.
Jason Duncan-King became angry with staff at the Metro Bank in Bromley, south London, and threatened to return later that day, police said about the incident last October.
He then warned them they would “not like what he was going to do next”.
The 51-year-old returned to the building about an hour later carrying a petrol can in a shopping bag.
After approaching the same member of staff he had earlier spoken to, Duncan-King told him to clear the bank before dousing himself, the counter and the rest of the store in the fuel.
More than £11,000 worth of damage was caused to flooring, computer equipment and furniture.
A number of staff also had petrol poured on them while others suffered minor injuries after the liquid caused them to fall.
Police found Duncan-King with matches in his hand when they arrived at the scene, which they quickly took from him.
The defendant, of Sevenoaks, pleaded guilty to attempted arson, being reckless to whether life would be endangered.
He was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison at Croydon Crown Court.
“This incident could have been significantly worse if not for the swift and selfless intervention of these officers – actions which may well have saved the life of Duncan-King and others," said Detective Constable Jamie Kirby, of London's Metropolitan Police after the verdict.
Detective Sergeant Danielle Power, who led the investigation, added: “Duncan-King had no regard for the safety of others and despite causing no serious physical injuries, his actions have had a big impact on the lives of many staff present on the day. The work of all of the officers involved in this investigation, as well as our colleagues from the London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade should be recognised, as well as the assistance of Metro Bank who helped us secure a successful prosecution.”