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By
Leah Meyer
- January 16, 2025
Daily Stories
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Homicides
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Suspects
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Victims
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DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson found probable cause that a defendant was the perpetrator in a fatal arson during a hearing on Jan. 14.
Robert Simpson, 56, is charged with arson and felony murder for his alleged involvement in a fatal house fire that occurred on Oct. 6, 2024, on the 3400 block of 23rd Street, SE. The fire killed 64-year-old Ronald McKinnon, 34-year-old Jessica Cunningham, and 85-year-old Margaret McKinnon.
During the hearing, prosecutors presented surveillance footage allegedly showing Simpson walking toward the home, pausing briefly, then walking away following the start of the fire. Shortly after, a 911 call was made by Cunningham in which she stated “He came back…He set the house on fire.”
Simpson’s attorney, Kevin O’Sullivan, argued that in the call, Cunningham was referring to Ronald due to his alleged violent past involving domestic violence and drug use. The defense also stated that there is insufficient evidence that proves the identity of the suspect in the footage.
However, there were several incidents involving Simpson on Oct. 2, 4, and 5 prior to his arrest, according to the prosecution. Authorities responded to the residence for a family disturbance, destruction of property report, and a report of a fire that took place in a trash can near the back porch.
Ronald, who reported the fire on Oct. 5, stated that Simpson was outside of the residence saying “Imma f*** you and your house up.”
According to O’Sullivan, there was no DNA evidence of the defendant in or around the scene, and there were no injuries on his body consistent with committing the fatal arson.
Judge Dayson ruled that the prosecution provided sufficient evidence to find probable cause, and denied the defense counsel’s request for pre-trial release.
Parties will reconvene on March 18.