Michigan mom confesses to removing smoke detectors before setting deadly fire with sleeping children inside

January 30, 2025 Sharon Banks

A Michigan mother is accused of deliberately setting her home on fire while her three children slept inside, leading to the death of her 12-year-old daughter.

Authorities say 46-year-old Roconda Singleton confessed to removing seven fire alarms from the house before igniting the blaze early Saturday morning in Grand Rapids.

“I did it,” Singleton allegedly told police. “I am not going to sit here and play like I am the victim.”

Investigators believe Singleton planned the fire to ensure her daughters—ages 7, 10, and 12—were all inside and unaware of the danger. The missing fire alarms were later found hidden in a pillowcase in the backyard.

She allegedly doused the home in lighter fluid and set it ablaze, then stood outside watching as her children screamed for help.

Her 10-year-old daughter managed to rescue her 7-year-old sister, earning praise from family members who called her a “hero.” However, 12-year-old Shamiya Stewart was trapped inside and suffered severe injuries. She spent two days in intensive care before succumbing to her injuries on Monday.

Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom condemned the crime, calling it “shockingly cruel” and “unimaginable.” He added, “I cannot fathom any motive.”

The two surviving children suffered minor injuries, but the 10-year-old has been outspoken about seeking justice for her sister.

“I want to say that she should be locked up for life for killing my sister,” she said, expressing anger over her mother’s refusal to help rescue Shamiya. “I want to know, why did she have to do that to her? She didn’t deserve that.”

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Singleton appeared in court on Tuesday to face arson and child abuse charges. Despite allegedly admitting to the crime, she pleaded not guilty. Authorities expect additional charges, including murder, to be filed against her.