Chesterfield, VA — Tragic Arson Homicide Claims Lives of Elderly Sisters Evelyn Newman and Hazel Johnson

Chesterfield, VA — Tragic Arson Homicide Claims Lives of Elderly Sisters Evelyn Newman and Hazel Johnson

Chesterfield, Virginia — A quiet Chesterfield neighborhood was shaken to its core early Thursday morning when a devastating fire claimed the lives of two elderly sisters, 75-year-old Evelyn Newman and 78-year-old Hazel Johnson. Authorities say the blaze, which erupted around 4 a.m., was allegedly set intentionally by a family member in what police are describing as a shocking case of arson and homicide.

According to the Chesterfield County Police Department, the suspected arsonist is the sisters’ own granddaughter. Reports indicate that earlier in the evening, the granddaughter had been asked to leave the home by family members following a dispute. Hours later, the tragic fire engulfed the residence, leaving little time for emergency responders to intervene. Both sisters were pronounced dead at the scene.

“This is a deeply tragic case that has devastated a family and rattled an entire community,” said a Chesterfield Police spokesperson. “Our investigators are working tirelessly to understand the motive and gather all the evidence related to this heinous act.”

Neighbors and friends described Evelyn Newman and Hazel Johnson as pillars of their community—kind, generous, and beloved by all who knew them. Evelyn, 75, was known for her involvement in local charities and her love of gardening, while Hazel, 78, had a lifelong passion for teaching and mentoring young people in the neighborhood. Their deaths have left a profound void, and the community has begun rallying around the remaining family members in a show of support and solidarity.

The suspect, according to police sources, allegedly acted in a fit of rage following the confrontation with the sisters earlier in the evening. Law enforcement officials have cautioned that the investigation is ongoing, and further details regarding motive and circumstances will be released as they are verified. The alleged act has prompted shock and disbelief across Chesterfield, as incidents of family-related arson homicides remain rare and deeply unsettling.

Local authorities are urging anyone with information about the events leading up to the fire to come forward. Tips can be submitted confidentially, and investigators are following up on all leads to ensure that justice is served for Evelyn and Hazel.

Community members have begun organizing vigils and memorials to honor the lives of the sisters, leaving flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages at the site of the fire. Social media posts celebrating the sisters’ lives describe them as loving, vibrant, and dedicated to their family and neighbors, painting a stark contrast to the violent circumstances of their deaths.

“This is every parent and grandparent’s worst nightmare,” said one neighbor, who requested anonymity. “To think that this came from someone within the family—it’s just heartbreaking. Evelyn and Hazel were the kind of people who would give you the shirt off their back. Losing them like this is unimaginable.”

As Chesterfield authorities continue to investigate, the tragic deaths of Evelyn Newman and Hazel Johnson serve as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked anger and familial conflict. The case has left an indelible mark on the local community, and friends and neighbors are calling for justice while striving to support the family left behind.

Anyone with information regarding this arson homicide is urged to contact the Chesterfield County Police Department at 804-748-1251. Authorities stress that all tips will be taken seriously and handled with the utmost sensitivity.

Evelyn Newman and Hazel Johnson are remembered not only for their tragic deaths but for the decades of love, generosity, and community service they shared with those around them. Their lives, though cut short in a violent and shocking way, leave a legacy that will not be forgotten.