Pennsylvania Father Sentenced 15–30 Years for Arson That Killed Daughter, 19

Brian Shelleby, 47, set fire to his Castle Shannon home after his estranged wife refused to let him stay. Their 19-year-old daughter Lakyn died in the blaze.

Pennsylvania Father Gets 15 to 30 Years After Arson Fire Kills His 19-Year-Old Daughter

A Pennsylvania man was sentenced Thursday to 15 to 30 years in prison for setting fire to his family's home and killing his teenage daughter, Law & Crime reports.

Brian Shelleby, 47, of Castle Shannon, pleaded guilty last month to third-degree murder and aggravated arson. On the morning of September 14, 2025, he poured gasoline throughout both floors of the home he had once shared with his estranged wife, Carly Shelleby, and their 19-year-old daughter, Lakyn Shelleby — then set it alight while both women were still inside.

According to an affidavit reviewed by Law & Crime, the couple had been separating and had argued that morning over whether Brian Shelleby could remain in the house. Carly Shelleby told police she informed him he could no longer stay. He responded by threatening to "burn the house down," then retrieved a 5-gallon gas can and doused the interior.

The house "exploded into flames," the affidavit states. Carly Shelleby managed to escape but sustained severe burns. Lakyn Shelleby was trapped inside and was found unresponsive. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Brian Shelleby remained at the scene after the fire and told police he had set it. He stated he had been speaking with his wife, trying to "convince her to let him stay," and that when she told him to leave, he went looking for the gas can.

At the sentencing hearing, which local ABC affiliate WTAE attended, Carly Shelleby addressed the judge directly. "How was it so easy for him to burn us alive?" she reportedly asked.

Brian Shelleby did not speak during the proceedings. His attorney, Phil DiLucente, read a statement on his behalf: "To my family, my wife and my daughter, I am sorry. This should have never happened. My days are filled with flashbacks and my nights with nightmares. A part of me died along with her. I wish I could take that day back. I am just completely sorry."

Source: Law & Crime