NEW YORK CITY — Jamel McGriff, 42, has been arrested in connection with a double homicide and arson that claimed the lives of Frank and Maureen Olton, an elderly couple living in Queens.
According to New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, McGriff used a ruse to gain access to the couple’s home in the Bellerose neighborhood on Monday, September 8. He reportedly approached homes in the area asking to charge his phone, a tactic investigators say he used to target the Oltons.
Though initially denied entry, security footage captured McGriff entering the couple’s backyard and later staying in the home for nearly five hours. He was seen leaving with two bags, and just 15 minutes later, the home was engulfed in flames.
Responding officers found Maureen Olton severely burned on the first floor and Frank Olton stabbed and tied to a pole in the basement.
The New York City Fire Department confirmed the fire was set intentionally.
McGriff was located and arrested on Wednesday, September 10, in Midtown Manhattan, after authorities tracked his usage of the victims’ credit cards. He was also allegedly seen attempting to pawn two phones in the Bronx on September 9.
Commissioner Tisch called the incident a “horrific double homicide” and praised officers for the swift capture of the suspect.
