A woman from Michigan has been arrested after authorities claim she set her house on fire with her three children inside, resulting in the death of her 12-year-old daughter.
The victim, Shamiya Stewart, tragically passed away two days after the incident at their Grand Rapids home. Her two siblings, ages 10 and 7, managed to survive.
The mother, 46-year-old Roconda Singleton, was taken into custody on January 25. Reports suggest she removed seven smoke alarms from the house before igniting the blaze early that morning. The alarms were later discovered ringing inside a pillowcase in the backyard.
Investigators believe Singleton was trying to keep the children inside as the fire spread. While her daughters cried for help, she allegedly watched from outside.
During questioning, Singleton reportedly confessed to starting the fire, stating she used lighter fluid and a lighter. She claimed to have ignited the fire in the bathroom on the second floor before moving to the living room to set the couch on fire—all while knowing her children were asleep.
The surviving siblings were treated at a hospital and released shortly afterward. A GoFundMe campaign has been organized to support Shamiya’s family and honor her memory. Family members shared that her sisters escaped when the 10-year-old grabbed the younger sister and jumped to safety, while Shamiya remained asleep during the ordeal.
Shamiya’s family remembers her as a spirited child who faced many challenges since birth but grew to love music and dance.
Initially, Singleton was charged with first-degree arson and three counts of child abuse. Following Shamiya’s death, she is now facing a murder charge. During her latest court appearance, a judge entered a not guilty plea on her behalf. Further updates regarding her legal representation and plea related to the murder charge are pending.
