A 16-year-old boy has been charged with arson and manslaughter following the deaths of an elderly couple in a house fire in Hampshire. Stan and Roma Rickman, aged 91 and 88, were pronounced dead at their home in Heron Close, Alton, in the early hours of April 14, 2025, after emergency services responded to the blaze.
Charges and Court Appearance
Hampshire Constabulary confirmed that a teenage boy has been charged in connection with the incident. The suspect, a 16-year-old formerly from Alton, faces two counts of unlawful act manslaughter and one count of arson. He has been bailed with conditions and is scheduled to appear at Portsmouth Youth Court on Tuesday, May 12.
Police Investigation
Police were called at 4:00 AM on April 14, 2025, to reports of a fire at the property. Firefighters and officers attended, but Stan and Roma Rickman were tragically pronounced dead at the scene. Detective have conducted thorough inquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fire, leading to the charges.
Family Tribute
In a statement released through police, the family of the victims paid tribute to the couple, describing them as "much loved parents and grandparents who were kind and generous and would do anything for anyone." The family expressed deep sadness at their loss, stating: "Stan and Roma were taken from us too early, and we were unable to share their last years with them. They will be greatly missed, but their memory will live on through their family and many friends." The family also thanked the emergency services for their actions and support during this difficult time.
