A tragic incident unfolded in Castle Shannon, where a 19-year-old University of Pittsburgh student lost her life in a house fire yesterday morning. The fire, which officials say was set intentionally, claimed the life of Lakyn Shelleby and injured her mother, Carly Shelleby.
Authorities have charged 46-year-old Brian Shelleby with criminal homicide and aggravated arson, as reported by WTAE. Following the devastating event, a homeowner on 840 Corbett Drive was allegedly told by his estranged wife that he could not remain in the property, which, according to court documents, led him to pour gasoline throughout the home's lower levels and ignite the fire.
The blaze erupted just before 10 a.m., with neighbors recalling an explosion that preceded the flames. First responders arrived to find the house engulfed, and despite their efforts, Lakyn was pronounced deceased at the scene. Her mother was taken to UPMC Mercy in stable condition.
Community members tried to save Lakyn during the fire. "We set up a ladder on the back after we asked whoever where the child was," witness Manny Henriquez told WTAE. Henriquez and neighbors concentrated on the room they believed Lakyn to be in, but unfortunately, their efforts were met with insurmountable flames and smoke. Neighbor Patrick Funwela, who witnessed the fire, recalled, “We broke the window and climbed up the ladder, screaming for Lakyn,” as reported by WPXI. “We couldn’t find her, no words, nothing.”
Meanwhile, Brian Shelleby was detained on the scene and taken to the Allegheny County Jail, where he was denied bond. The investigation is ongoing, and any individuals with information concerning the fire are being urged to contact the County Police Tip Line 1-833-ALL-TIPS, with the option to remain anonymous.
