A man has admitted to killing a mother and her two children in a house fire but denies murder. Jamie Barrow, who lives on the same street as the three people who died in the house fire in Nottingham, pleaded guilty to manslaughter today. Fatoumatta Hydara, 28, Naeemah, one, and Fatimah Drammeh, three, died in the blaze. The fire broke out in the first-floor flat and claimed the lives of all three.
Barrow, 31, denied three counts of murder at Nottingham Crown Court today.
He also entered a not guilty plea to one count of arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered.
He was remanded in custody ahead of a provisional trial date of June 12.
Fatoumatta’s husband Aboubacarr Drammeh, 40, had raced back from America after the fire tore through the family home in November.
His children were rushed to hospital following the incident but tragically died hours later.
Fatoumatta was placed on a life support machine but later died.
Paying tribute, the dad said: “It is with great sadness that we have lost Fatoumatta and our two daughters in such a tragic way.
“Fatoumatta had lived a short but a very beautiful and fulfilling life. A former voluntary worker, Fatoumatta was a very happy, bubbly woman who wouldn’t have the heart to hurt a fly.
“It is therefore inconceivable to think who might have committed this cruel crime against my family.
“We thank the Ahmadi Muslim community in Nottinghamshire, the Gambian community, the local neighbours and all those well-wishers for their continuous support in this difficult time.
“I and my in-laws are left without any daughters, grandchildren and nieces. I will deeply miss my family.”
A provisional trial date has been set for June 12.