A man has been charged with arson after a suspected “drive-by” firework attack on a care home left a disabled woman fighting for life.
Donna Stringer, who uses a wheelchair and has learning difficulties, became trapped and fell unconscious as the care home in Barking, east London, erupted in flames.
CCTV footage showed a car driving past and what appeared to be fireworks being launched at the building at about 1am on Friday, November 13.
Ms Stringer, 43, was rescued by firefighters in oxygen masks after at least eight others escaped Lynwood Care Home in Beccles Drive.
She remains in a critical condition in hospital three weeks after the suspected arson attack.
Speaking last week, Det Sgt Karl Dines said: “This is a deeply upsetting incident involving an innocent and helpless victim who has severe learning difficulties.
"Donna is fighting for her life in hospital; medical staff are working tirelessly around the clock to keep her condition stable in the hope that she will recover.”
Sabbir Ahmed, 22, of Doveton Street, Bethnal Green, has now been charged with arson with intent to endanger life and recklessness with intent to endanger life. He will appear at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on Saturday.
Two other men, aged 21 and 22, were arrested on suspicion of arson and have been bailed to return to police in January.
