Virginia – In a horrific incident in Virginia, a 25-year-old woman, identified as Alicia N., has been arrested in connection with the deaths of her 75-year-old grandmother, identified as Evelyn N., and 78-year-old great-aunt, identified as Hazel J., whom she killed after setting the home she was allowed to live in with her children on fire in the early hours of Saturday morning. Authorities say the blaze was intentionally set after Alicia had been asked to leave the home following an argument.
Alicia, who had been living at the residence with her children and the elderly women, was charged with arson shortly after her arrest. Officials say additional charges are expected, including potential homicide charges, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation. She is currently held without bond at the county jail, and her first court appearance was scheduled for Monday.
The fire broke out just after 4:20 a.m. on Saturday, prompting a swift response from fire and EMS crews to the residence. Inside the burning home, firefighters located Evelyn and her sister, Hazel. Both women were pulled from the flames and transported to local hospitals but died shortly after due to the severity of their injuries. The fire, initially thought to be a tragic accident, was quickly determined to be deliberately set, following a coordinated investigation by the police department and the fire marshal’s office.
Family members say the two women had limited mobility, relying on crutches and walkers, which made escaping the fast-moving flames nearly impossible. According to W. Robertson, a victim’s cousin, Evelyn had opened her home to her granddaughter, Alicia, and Alicia’s children. The arrangement reportedly worked for a time, but tension grew, eventually culminating in an argument. After the dispute, Evelyn asked her granddaughter to leave. It is not clear whether Alicia and her children had another place to go.
The home where the fire occurred had been in the family for over 30 years, a place that had served as a cornerstone of stability for generations. Now, the fire has not only destroyed the property but also torn the family apart. While Alicia has not yet been formally charged in the deaths of her relatives, officials have confirmed that more serious charges are under review. For now, the arson charge remains the primary legal action as authorities continue to gather evidence. Family members have expressed a mix of grief and frustration. Robertson described Alicia as someone who could “easily do something like this and not look back.” His words highlight the strained family dynamics and the depth of hurt caused by the tragedy.
The police department and the fire marshal’s office continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the blaze. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tipsters can contact the police at 804-748-1251 or Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660, or use the P3 app to provide anonymous leads. As the community mourns the loss of Evelyn and Hazel, many are left grappling with how a family dispute ended in such horrific violence. With Alicia in custody, the legal system will now determine the full extent of her accountability in the deaths of the two women who once gave her shelter.
