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Wisconsin Woman Allegedly Sets Father’s Apartment on Fire After Eviction Attempt
A 48-year-old Wisconsin woman, Laquita Spears, is facing arson and reckless endangerment charges after allegedly setting her father’s Milwaukee apartment on fire on January 13, 2026, following a dispute over eviction. The incident forced the evacuation of the building,which primarily houses elderly and disabled residents,and resulted in multiple injuries,including one hospitalization for chest pain.
Details of the Incident
According to a criminal complaint, Spears and her father were arguing after he informed her she could no longer stay in his apartment. She had been living wiht him for several weeks after being discharged from a local shelter. During the argument, Spears allegedly shouted, “Burn motherf-er, burn!” before igniting a coat and couch with charcoal fluid and a Bic lighter.
The fire quickly spread, prompting residents to evacuate, with some forced to hang out of windows to escape the flames. Milwaukee firefighters responded to the scene. Authorities reported that the apartment complex lacked sprinkler systems, increasing the danger to residents.
Father’s Account
Spears’ father told police that he initially had no issues with his daughter, but her behavior changed over the preceding two weeks. He stated she began talking to herself frequently and became agitated, demanding a $5 loan from a family member. He explained that he told Spears she could no longer stay with him, which led to her outburst and the subsequent fire.
He observed Spears walking toward the door with a Bic lighter before making the threatening statement and then setting the fire. He attempted to extinguish the flames but was unsuccessful.
Spears’ Admission and Prior Record
Following her arrest on January 16, Spears admitted to squirting charcoal fluid on a jacket and a pile of clothes in the living room and then igniting them with the lighter. She claimed she did not intend to hurt anyone and underestimated the extent of the fire’s spread.
Spears has two prior arson convictions, according to the criminal complaint. During questioning, she reportedly discussed past disputes with family members and her previous arson case.
Charges and Court Appearance
Spears is charged with arson and reckless endangerment. She is currently being held on a $50,000 bond and has been ordered to have
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