Teen arrested for Milton Street fire that killed two young girls

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – A teenager was arrested by Shreveport police for allegedly starting the fatal fire on Milton Street that claimed two children’s lives.

Information released by Shreveport police states that detectives determined that a 15-year-old boy who was living in the home is responsible for setting it on fire on October 13. Family members turned the teenager over to his probation officer just hours after the tragedy. The juvenile was already wanted for prior criminal offenses.

Shreveport police arrested the teen for second-degree murder after two children died in the fire. The children attended Turner Elementary School.

The Caddo Parish School Board acknowledged their tragic passing during its recent meeting. Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux also urged community support for the families experiencing this sudden loss.

SPD extended its deepest condolences to the victims’ families by saying it hopes this arrest brings some measure of peace and closure.

This was a heartbreaking case. Two innocent lives were lost, and our detectives refused to rest until answers were found. We’re thankful for the Fire Department’s partnership and the technological advancements that helped bring this investigation to a close,” said Chief Wayne Smith.

Investigators also credited advanced technology and teamwork for helping bring this case to a close. The department said the newly implemented Axon camera system provided critical footage that helped detectives piece together what happened, while the dedicated team at The Gingerbread House Children’s Advocacy Center worked tirelessly to gather information and evidence from family members.