A Chicago man is facing murder and arson charges after allegedly setting a building on fire, killing four people, including a pregnant mother and her 5-year-old son. The horrific act occurred on June 26 in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, following a personal dispute between the man, Lontray Clark, and his ex-girlfriend.
Clark, 23, is accused of throwing Molotov cocktails at the building, setting it ablaze and trapping the victims inside. The fire claimed the lives of Brad Cummings, a 76-year-old newspaper editor, and Destiny Henry, 28, as well as Regina Henry, 32, and her young son Jayceon Henry.
Destiny Henry was the sister of Regina, and both were reportedly not connected to Clark or his ex-girlfriend.
The Motive Behind the Attack
According to prosecutors, Clark became enraged after seeing a Snapchat photo of his ex-girlfriend with his friend, who was dating her. Earlier that day, Clark and his ex-girlfriend had an argument.
After seeing the photo, he allegedly went to his friend’s apartment and threw the first Molotov cocktail at the building’s front door, followed by another at the back.
West Side Alderwoman Emma Mitts shared the chilling details, describing how the victims were trapped inside. “They never had a chance,” Mitts told the Chicago Sun-Times.
How the Attack Unfolded
Clark reportedly went to a gas station with a cousin to purchase gasoline, which he then used to create Molotov cocktails. They bought black clothing, face masks, and a lighter before driving to the apartment building. Prosecutors say Clark later confessed to his cousin, telling him, “I just lit the house on fire.”
The fire department responded to the scene at around 1:50 a.m., with an estimated 140 firefighters working to control the blaze. Thankfully, Clark’s ex-girlfriend and his friend were able to escape through a window.
However, four-year-old Kyle, Destiny Henry’s son, was critically injured and taken to the hospital with head trauma and burns.
Prosecutor’s Charges
Clark is now facing first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and aggravated arson among other charges. His cousin reportedly cooperated with law enforcement, leading to Clark’s arrest. However, Clark’s defense attorney pointed out that there is no surveillance video of the attack, leaving the case dependent on witness testimony and confessions.
Alderwoman Emma Mitts expressed outrage over the attack, saying, “It’s something that could have been avoided,” adding that the perpetrators should be locked away for life.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Shock
The devastating fire not only destroyed lives but shocked the Austin community, where Brad Cummings was a well-known figure. The victims’ families and the neighborhood continue to cope with the aftermath of this tragedy, which has left many questioning the extent of violence and anger that led to such a horrific act.
Authorities have vowed to continue investigating the incident and ensure justice for the victims. For now, Clark remains in custody, facing serious charges for his deadly actions.
