Woman Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Arson Leading to Death of Blind Man
August 26, 2024
WISCONSIN: A devastating incident in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has resulted in a harsh sentence for a woman who admitted to setting a home on fire, leading to the tragic death of a blind man. Merchelle Adams, 63, was sentenced to 11 years in prison on Friday for her role in the fatal arson attack.
On July 11, 2023, the Milwaukee Fire Department responded to a blaze near 29th and Bobolink, where they found flames engulfing the second floor of the residence. Despite their efforts, firefighters were unable to rescue Anthony Winters, 60, who was sleeping on a mattress inside. Winters, a retired factory worker who had become legally blind in recent years, succumbed to the intense heat and smoke.
Adams, who pleaded guilty to second-degree reckless homicide in July, admitted to intentionally setting the fire. According to court records and witness statements, Adams had been involved in a domestic dispute with Winters earlier that day. She claimed that Winters had pushed her out of a chair, prompting her to set the mattress on fire while he was sleeping.
When questioned by police, Adams showed little remorse, stating, "That's what he gets." She will serve 11 years in prison, followed by 9 years of probation. Adams received credit for over 400 days of jail time already served.
The victim's family remembered Winters as a kind and talented individual who continued to paint and draw despite his poor vision. "Everybody loved him," said his sister-in-law, Doris Winters.
