Woman Screamed 'Burn!' Before Setting Fire to Dad's Home

A harrowing incident unfolded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on January 13, 2026, when Laquita Spears, 48, allegedly set fire to her father's apartment following an eviction dispute. Neighbors reported Spears had been exhibiting unstable behavior for weeks prior. The criminal complaint states Spears used charcoal fluid and a lighter to ignite a coat and couch within the apartment while her father was present.

During the act, Spears reportedly screamed "burn motherf***** burn!" at her father before fleeing. The fire rapidly spread through the housing complex, which predominantly houses elderly and disabled residents and lacks a sprinkler system. Residents were forced to self-evacuate, with some escaping by hanging from windows. Multiple individuals suffered from smoke inhalation and other injuries, with one requiring hospitalization for chest pain after being found unresponsive.

Spears, who has prior arson convictions, has been charged with arson and reckless endangerment. While she admitted to igniting the fluid at two locations, she claimed she did not intend to harm anyone or foresee the fire's extensive spread. Investigators noted her erratic behavior and nonsensical arguments concerning a small sum of money prior to the incident.