A murder defendant pleaded not guilty during his arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on Aug. 8.
Robert Simpson, 56, is charged with three counts of felony murder that was especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel with aggravating circumstances, assault with a dangerous weapon, simple assault, threat to kidnap or injure a person, misdemeanor threats to do bodily harm, arson, and two counts of destruction of property worth less than $1,000. These charges stem from Simpson’s alleged involvement in a 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, Simpson’s attorney, Kevin O’Sullivan, informed Judge Dayson of Simpson’s intention to plead not guilty to all charges and asserted his right to a speedy trial.
In a January 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.”
The defense claims there is insufficient evidence that proves the identity of the suspect in the footage.
Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Dec. 12.
