Beloved University of Pittsburgh Student Lakyn Shelleby Dies in Tragic House Fire; Father Charged with Arson and Homicide
Castle Shannon, PA – A heartbreaking tragedy struck the Castle Shannon community on Sunday morning when Lakyn Shelleby, a 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh, lost her life in a devastating house fire at her family home.
The blaze also left her mother, Carly Shelleby, hospitalized but in stable condition. Authorities have since charged Lakyn’s father, Brian Shelleby, 46, with criminal homicide and aggravated arson, after he admitted to intentionally setting the fire.
The Night of the Tragedy
Emergency responders rushed to the Shelleby family residence early Sunday morning in Castle Shannon after reports of a dangerous fire. Upon arrival, rescuers found the 19-year-old Lakyn Shelleby deceased inside the home, while her mother was transported to the hospital where she remains in stable condition.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the blaze was deliberately ignited. According to a criminal complaint, Carly Shelleby informed police that she had told her estranged husband Brian to leave the home as they were separated.
She then overheard suspicious noises of liquid being poured in the garage, with Lakyn later reporting she saw her father pouring gasoline. Brian Shelleby admitted to starting the fire, causing a catastrophic explosion.
“I heard an explosion and ran outside and saw all the windows were blown out … the thickest black smoke I have ever seen,”
said neighbor Patrick Funwela to CBS Pittsburgh, expressing the shock felt by those nearby.
Community Response and Heartfelt Memories
Neighbors and friends rallied around the family and the grieving community. Painter Manul Henriquez recounted his efforts to help, driven by thoughts of his own children.
“We went around the house, trying to help break windows, open doors, but the whole house was engulfed by the time we got there.”
At a vigil held outside St. Anne’s Church, classmates and neighbors fondly remembered Lakyn as a vibrant and determined young woman. A passionate animal lover and talented saxophonist in her high school band, Lakyn was known for her confidence and charisma.
Alexandria Kelley, a childhood classmate, shared, “She was so smart, and she could kick down the doors with her charisma. There really was no one else with her attitude.”
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Investigation and Community Support
Brian Shelleby now faces serious charges including criminal homicide, aggravated arson, and causing or risking catastrophe. He has been held at the Allegheny County Jail awaiting arraignment. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the County Police Tip Line at 1-833-ALL-TIPS.
In the wake of the tragedy, a fundraising campaign to support Carly Shelleby’s medical expenses and cover Lakyn’s funeral costs has already raised over $47,000 as of Wednesday afternoon, highlighting the community’s generosity and compassion.
For more detailed coverage on this tragic event, visit the original report at People.com.
Remembering Lakyn and Moving Forward
The loss of Lakyn Shelleby leaves a profound sadness among her family, friends, and the University of Pittsburgh community. As authorities continue their investigation, those who knew her remember a bright, confident young woman whose life was tragically cut short.
- Lakyn Shelleby: 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh
- Brian Shelleby: 46-year-old father charged with criminal homicide and arson
- Location: Family home in Castle Shannon, Pennsylvania
- Incident date: Sunday morning fire
- Current status: Carly Shelleby hospitalized in stable condition
- Fundraiser: Over $47,000 raised for medical and funeral expenses
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