Man who tried to set fire to flat block and takeaway dies in prison

Paul Smith pleaded guilty at the High Court in Glasgow to two charges of attempted fire-raising.

Man who tried to set fire to Paisley flat block and takeaway dies in prison — Paul Smith died behind bars at HMP Low Moss. Google Maps

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A man who attempted to set fire to a block of flats and a takeaway in Paisley has died in prison.

Paul Smith tried to start the fires on the morning of September 2, 2024.

Smith initially splashed accelerant on his front door and pieces of paper, which he put through a neighbour’s letterbox.

He then left the block of flats and set fire to a car before he fled to a chip shop to escape police.

Once there, a crouched Smith set fire to the shutters, which increased in size. Smith was later found by officers with a knife concealed in his trousers.

Smith pleaded guilty at the High Court in Glasgow to two charges of attempted fire-raising.

He also admitted a charge of wilful fire-raising and possession of a knife in a public place.

The 42-year-old man was due to be sentenced this month, however, he died behind bars at HMP Low Moss on May 11.

A Fatal Accident Inquiry is due to take place.

A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: “Every death, whether in prison custody or in our communities, is a tragedy for all those who knew and supported the individual.

“Following the death of someone in our care, Police Scotland are advised, and the matter reported to the Procurator Fiscal. Fatal Accident Inquiries are held in due course.”