Chesterfield, VA — A tragic fire on early Saturday morning claimed the lives of two senior sisters in Chesterfield, leading to the arrest of a family member on arson charges. The sisters, identified as Evelyn Newman, 75, and Hazel Johnson, 78, had been long-time residents in their suburban home near Richmond.
Authorities reported that the fire broke out around 4:20 a.m. in the 3000 block of the neighborhood. Both women were rescued by firefighters from the inferno but succumbed to their injuries after being rushed to a nearby hospital.
The incident escalated when police detained 25-year-old Alicia Newman, who is the granddaughter of Evelyn Newman. Alicia was arrested shortly after the fire was reported. She is accused of setting the home ablaze following a familial dispute.
Investigations revealed that the dispute stemmed from Evelyn asking Alicia, who lived there with her own young children, to move out. This request reportedly came after a prolonged period of household tension.
Sources close to the investigation stated that Alicia, who did not have another permanent residence, was told to vacate the home just days before the tragedy. Authorities have described the fire’s origin as suspicious and have evidence suggesting it was set intentionally.
As of Monday, Chesterfield County Jail records show that Alicia Newman is being held without bond on arson charges only, but law enforcement officials hint at the potential for additional charges as the investigation progresses.
The fire left the home significantly damaged, now boarded up and visibly scarred by smoke. This was particularly shocking to neighbors, who described Evelyn and Hazel as closely knit sisters beloved in the community.
No legal representative for Alicia has come forward so far, and it is unclear whether she has entered a plea. Legal proceedings began earlier this week with an arraignment.
As firefighters and police continue to sift through the aftermath at the scene, they seek to confirm the sequence of events that led to the deadly fire. The local community remains in mourning, reflecting on the lives of the two sisters who had become familiar and cherished faces over the decades. Meanwhile, the ongoing investigation promises to deliver answers to the many questions surrounding the heartbreaking event.