An arsonist, 23-year-old James Carter, has been ordered to be detained in a secure hospital after setting a fire at one of Manchester's renowned hotels, risking fatalities.

The incident occurred in the early hours of January 9, 2023, when Carter, who was experiencing homelessness and mental health issues, ignited artificial ivy foliage at the Midland Hotel on Mount Street.

The fire quickly spread, leading to the evacuation of 280 guests from the four-star hotel, housed in a prestigious Grade I listed building, around 3:30 am. Emergency services promptly responded to the situation.

Thanks to the swift action of firefighters, the blaze was contained, preventing further intrusion into the hotel. However, the fire caused extensive burn and smoke damage, estimated at around £150,000, necessitating specialists to address smoke damage in four bedrooms.

CCTV footage captured Carter approaching the entrance, examining the foliage before igniting it. Just weeks prior, on December 21, 2022, he set a decorative 'Narnia arch' on fire at the Royal Exchange Theatre, causing approximately £9,000 in damage.

The fire at the theatre was extinguished promptly by security staff, but it resulted in significant damage to various structures.

Officers identified Carter from the CCTV footage of both incidents. He was arrested two days later while sleeping rough near the Mancunian Way, where he admitted to starting the Royal Exchange fire due to an inability to sleep.

Carter expressed that he had not planned the Midland fire, justifying it by stating the hotel was old and had likely been set on fire before.

He previously pleaded guilty to charges of arson, indicating recklessness as to whether life was endangered in relation to the Midland Hotel fire, and another charge for the Royal Exchange incident.

At a sentencing hearing on January 29, 2025, Manchester Crown Court heard that Carter, who had been homeless for two years prior to the incidents, had a complex history of mental illness and drug use. His mental health condition had deteriorated significantly and he was diagnosed with Paranoid Schizophrenia.

The court also noted missed opportunities by NHS services to effectively diagnose and manage his condition in previous years.

Judge Nicholas Dean KC highlighted the serious nature of the arson charges and noted the risk of fatality associated with Carter’s actions, regardless of intent. He emphasized the need for public protection and imposed a hospital order with restrictions.

Judge Dean stated that Carter's past behaviors, including incidents in prison and the secure hospital where he is currently treated, indicated a high risk of further offenses.

Restrictions placed on Carter are necessary to protect the public from serious harm, and the duration of these restrictions remains uncertain.