Two suspects now face murder charges after an arson kills pregnant mom and children in Philadelphia. Authorities arrested 67-year-old Charles Sumpter and 44-year-old Fleitte Newell. Consequently, police charged them with multiple counts of murder related to the deadly fire that devastated a family and community.
The tragic incident took place in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood. Early in the morning, firefighters responded to a blazing fire at a rowhouse on N. Corlies Street. Upon arrival, they found the property fully engulfed in flames. Inside the home, rescuers discovered 31-year-old Ashley Thompson deceased on the second floor.
Moreover, Thompson’s two young children, six-year-old Assad Thompson and four-year-old Alaya Thompson-Newell, suffered severe injuries and were rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, both children later passed away. In contrast, a 54-year-old woman and a third child managed to escape the fire with their lives. The woman, identified as Sherry Jackson, survived despite the terrifying situation inside the burning home.
Jackson is the sister of one of the suspects, Fleitte Newell. She revealed to police that she had an ongoing dispute with Newell over the ownership of the house. The argument lasted over a year. Furthermore, Jackson stated that Newell had threatened to burn the house with her inside. Despite reporting the threat to authorities, no preventive action was taken before the fire.
Authorities interviewed both suspects shortly after the fire but did not arrest them immediately. However, after gathering enough evidence, police served warrants and took Sumpter and Newell into custody. Both now face multiple charges, including several counts of murder and related offenses.
Family and friends remember Ashley Thompson as a loving mother, daughter, and friend. She was seven months pregnant at the time of her death. Additionally, a fundraiser set up for the family described how much joy Thompson’s children brought to everyone around them. The loss has left a deep wound in the community.
Overall, this heartbreaking case stands as a grave reminder of the devastating impact when arson kills pregnant mom and children. Authorities continue to investigate the incident as they seek justice for the victims. Meanwhile, the neighborhood mourns the tragic loss of this young family.
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