Woman Charged with Murder and Arson in Minneapolis Apartment Fire
A woman has been charged with second-degree murder and arson following a deadly apartment fire in Minneapolis. The fire, which occurred in August last year, claimed the lives of two residents and left others homeless. Prosecutors allege that the fire was intentionally set after a heated argument, and the suspect now faces serious legal repercussions.
The Incident
The fire broke out at a four-story apartment building on 11th Avenue South and East 15th Street, just four blocks from U.S. Bank Stadium, around 10 p.m. one night in August. Residents of the Stadium Place Apartments experienced chaos and terror as flames and thick black smoke engulfed the building.
Witnesses described the scene as overwhelming and frightening, with one resident expressing relief that their young nieces were not home to witness the destruction. Despite efforts to control the blaze, the fire caused significant damage and loss of life.
Casualties and Impact
Two residents tragically lost their lives in the fire. Authorities identified the victims as 66-year-old Kerry Sims and 59-year-old Debbie Allen. Others were injured, including two individuals who suffered severe burns. The fire displaced numerous residents, leaving the building boarded up and uninhabitable. Months later, the structure remains empty, serving as a stark reminder of the devastation caused that night.
The Investigation
Authorities quickly launched an investigation into the fire, which arson investigators determined had been deliberately set. According to the criminal complaint, two specific locations on the second floor of the building were identified as the points of origin: one near the stairwell and the other in front of an apartment unit. Investigators reviewed 911 calls, surveillance footage, and witness testimonies, all of which pointed to 35-year-old Deanna Presbury as the suspect.
Suspect and Motive
Witnesses reported a heated argument between Presbury and a male resident of the building just minutes before the fire began. According to the complaint, Presbury demanded her belongings during the argument.
After receiving them, she allegedly made a chilling threat, stating her intention to “burn the building down.” Shortly afterward, smoke was detected, and the fire began to spread. Surveillance cameras captured footage of Presbury leaving the building with a lit cigarette while wearing a blue rubber glove, further implicating her in the incident.
Prosecutors believe the motive behind the arson stemmed from personal grievances, potentially fueled by the argument and lingering tensions. In court documents, Presbury reportedly attributed her actions to matters of love, although details surrounding this claim remain unclear.
Additional Evidence and Related Incidents
Presbury has also been named a person of interest in other incidents involving fire-related damage. Authorities cited previous cases where personal belongings were set on fire, adding weight to the allegations against her. These incidents suggest a potential pattern of behavior, which may be presented during court proceedings.
Legal Proceedings
Presbury has been formally charged with two counts of second-degree murder and one count of arson. Her first court appearance is scheduled for the following afternoon, where she will face the charges and provide a response to the allegations. The case has drawn significant attention, given the tragic loss of life and the severity of the accusations.
Conclusion
The Minneapolis apartment fire of August last year remains a haunting memory for the displaced residents and the families of the victims. As the legal case unfolds, the focus will be on uncovering the full truth behind the events of that night and delivering justice for those affected. With strong evidence linking the suspect to the crime, prosecutors aim to hold Presbury accountable for the devastating consequences of her alleged actions.
