Arsonist Declan Lancaster admits Patryk Mortimer death

Declan Lancaster admitted manslaughter and arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered

An arsonist has admitted killing a man in a fire.

Declan Lancaster had been charged with the murder of Patryk Mortimer but admitted manslaughter when he appeared at Newcastle Crown Court.

Mr Mortimer, 39, died in a blaze at the former Manor House Care Home in Easington Lane on 3 November 2018.

Lancaster, 24, of no fixed abode, was remanded into custody for sentencing on 2 July. He also admitted arson being reckless as to endangering life.

Patryk Mortimer was killed by a fire at a former care home

Northumbria Police said Lancaster had been socialising at the former care home with friends before he decided to pour accelerant in the hallway and start the fire.

All other residents managed to get out but Mr Mortimer was found dead in his room, a force spokesman said.

Pictures released by police show the scale of fire damage

Det Sgt Steven Brown, of Northumbria Police, said: "Declan Lancaster is a dangerous man who committed a truly appalling act.

"He knowingly and willingly started the fire, caused catastrophic damage and tragically rid Patryk of the life that lay in front of him.

"It could so easily have resulted in the deaths of other residents that were inside. Lancaster must now live with the consequences of his horrendous actions that have caused unimaginable pain and anguish to many people."

Declan Lancaster started at a fire at the former Manor House Care Home in Easington Lane