Tragic Arson That Killed Pregnant Mother and Two Children Leads to Arrests and Murder Charges

Philadelphia, PA – June 30, 2025 — A horrifying house fire that killed a pregnant mother and her two young children earlier this month has taken a grim turn as authorities announced the arrest of two individuals now facing murder and arson charges in connection with the deadly blaze.

Philadelphia Police, working in coordination with fire investigators and the District Attorney’s Office, confirmed the arrests of 67-year-old Charles Sumpter and 44-year-old Fleitte Newell for their alleged roles in the June 13 fire that tore through a family home in North Philadelphia. The victims, 31-year-old Ashley Thompson, her 6-year-old son Assad Thompson, and her 4-year-old daughter Alaya Thompson-Newell, tragically perished in the blaze. Ashley was also several months pregnant at the time of her death.

A Shocking Crime

According to officials, the fire was deliberately set at the family’s residence on the 2200 block of North Stillman Street just after 3:00 a.m. on June 13. When firefighters arrived, the rowhome was already engulfed in flames. First responders battled intense heat and thick smoke in an attempt to reach those trapped inside. Tragically, by the time they gained entry, it was too late. Ashley, Assad, and Alaya were found unresponsive in an upstairs bedroom. All were later pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators quickly suspected arson due to the fire’s rapid spread and evidence of accelerants. Surveillance footage, witness interviews, and forensic evidence led authorities to identify Sumpter and Newell as persons of interest. After weeks of careful investigation, warrants were issued for their arrest. Both suspects were taken into custody without incident over the weekend.

Motive Still Unclear

While the exact motive behind the alleged arson remains under investigation, law enforcement sources indicate the crime may have stemmed from a long-standing personal dispute. Prosecutors confirmed that the suspects knew the victim and that the fire was intentionally set with the intent to kill.

“This was not a random act of violence,” said Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner during a press conference Monday morning. “This was a calculated and heinous act, resulting in the deaths of a young mother, her children, and an unborn child. We will pursue justice with every resource available to us.”

Sumpter and Newell now face multiple counts, including three counts of first-degree murder, arson, reckless endangerment, and conspiracy to commit murder. Given the severity of the crime, prosecutors have indicated they will seek life sentences without the possibility of parole.

Remembering the Victims

The loss of Ashley Thompson and her children has devastated the North Philadelphia community. Ashley, a loving and devoted mother, was described by neighbors as warm, hardworking, and endlessly nurturing. She had recently returned to school with hopes of becoming a medical assistant to provide a better life for her children.

Assad, known for his bright smile and curious nature, had just completed first grade at a local elementary school. His younger sister, Alaya, was known for her love of dancing and cuddling with her mother. The family had recently celebrated Alaya’s fourth birthday with a small party in their backyard, just days before the tragedy.

“Ashley loved her kids more than anything,” said her sister, Renee Thompson. “She worked so hard to give them a better life. They didn’t deserve this. No one deserves this.”

A memorial of flowers, stuffed animals, and candles continues to grow in front of the charred remains of the home. Community members have gathered in grief and solidarity, vowing to remember the victims and stand against violence in their neighborhood.

A Call for Justice and Healing

City leaders and faith organizations have come forward to condemn the violence and offer support to the grieving family. Vigils and prayer services have been held across the city, and fundraising efforts are underway to assist surviving relatives and cover funeral costs.

Mayor Cherelle Parker issued a statement calling the tragedy “an unspeakable act of violence that has shaken us to our core,” and vowed that the city will do everything in its power to ensure justice is served. “We owe it to Ashley, Assad, Alaya, and the unborn child lost in this horrific event,” she said.

The case has also reignited calls for stronger measures to combat domestic and interpersonal violence, as well as increased mental health and social services in underserved areas of the city.

Moving Forward

While the arrests mark a significant development in the case, healing will be a long and painful process for those who knew and loved Ashley and her children. The community continues to grieve the loss of three lives—and one unborn—snatched away in an act of cruelty and malice.

Funeral services for the family were held on June 24, with hundreds in attendance, including city officials, educators, and community members. The service was filled with both sorrow and strength, as speakers recalled the beauty and promise of lives gone far too soon.

As the legal process unfolds, the Philadelphia community stands united in mourning, remembrance, and the pursuit of justice for a mother and her children who should still be here today.