Father Gets 22 Years for Daughter's Death in Fiery Car

An Ohio man, Nicholas Stemen, has received a prison sentence of at least 22 years for his role in the death of his 2-year-old daughter, Lillyanna Stemen. The tragic incident occurred on September 24, 2024, when authorities responded to a report of a car fire in American Township, Ohio. Upon arrival, deputies found the vehicle engulfed in flames and Stemen nearby, visibly distressed and heavily intoxicated.

Despite Stemen's initial claims that no one was in the car, investigators tragically discovered Lillyanna's body inside the vehicle after extinguishing the fire. Evidence indicated the child's presence. Stemen later admitted to consuming a significant amount of alcohol prior to the event, stating he had blacked out. He was subsequently convicted of aggravated arson, involuntary manslaughter, and child endangerment.

Lillyanna was remembered in an obituary as a vibrant and loving child. Her sentencing brings a grim conclusion to a case that highlights the devastating consequences of severe intoxication and neglect. Stemen's sentence ranges from a minimum of 22 years to a maximum of 27 years and 6 months.