Man Gets 15 to 30 Years After Fire Killed His Daughter

A Pennsylvania man was sentenced to 15 to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty in a fire that killed his 19-year-old daughter at the home of his estranged wife.

Brian Shelleby, 47, pleaded guilty to third-degree murder and aggravated arson causing bodily injury in connection with the 2025 fire in Castle Shannon, according to People.

Fire Followed an Argument

Investigators said Shelleby went to the home after an argument with his estranged wife and set the residence on fire. Their daughter, Lakyn Shelleby, was inside and died.

Shelleby’s estranged wife was also injured in the fire.

Plea Deal Resolved the Case

Shelleby entered the guilty plea in August. Additional charges were dropped under the plea agreement.

The court imposed a sentence of 15 to 30 years in state prison.

Family Addressed the Court

Lakyn was remembered by relatives as a talented musician and martial artist. Her mother described the long-term impact of losing her daughter during the sentencing proceedings.

The guilty plea resolved the criminal case without a trial. Shelleby now begins the prison sentence imposed for the fire and Lakyn’s death.

References: Dad Torched Home of Estranged Wife - and Killed Their 19-Year-Old Daughter Instead