Minneapolis, MN (trfnews.i234.me)—Deonna Marie Presbury, a 35-year-old Minneapolis woman, has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder and three counts of first-degree arson following a deadly fire on August 13 that claimed two lives and left two others seriously injured. The fire occurred at an apartment building on the 1500 block of 11th Avenue South.
Details of the Incident
According to the criminal complaint, firefighters arrived to find the building fully engulfed in flames. Two residents were discovered deceased in Apartment 403, having succumbed to smoke inhalation. Two other victims suffered severe burns and required rescue from their fourth-floor apartments.
Fire investigators determined the blaze was intentionally set, with two points of origin identified on the second floor. Witnesses reported hearing an argument involving Presbury shortly before the fire. During the dispute, Presbury allegedly threatened to “burn this place down.” Security footage captured Presbury leaving the building with her daughter moments before the fire started.
When questioned, Presbury initially denied being at the scene but later admitted her presence after investigators presented surveillance evidence. Authorities noted that Presbury has been linked to prior arson-related incidents.
Legal Proceedings
Presbury remains in custody on a $1 million bail. If convicted, she faces up to 40 years in prison for each murder charge and up to 20 years for each arson charge. Her first court appearance was scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.
This tragic case underscores the devastating consequences of arson and the importance of holding individuals accountable for such reckless acts.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me