Philadelphia Men Convicted for Pizza Shop Arson Leading to Firefighter’s Death

Two Philadelphia men have been found guilty in a case involving the arson of a nearby pizza place that killed a firefighter, after a trial that captivated the city. The building’s owner, Al-Ashraf Khalil, 31, and Isaam Jaghama, 31, were convicted of starting the fire that killed Firefighter Lt. Sean Williamson and caused the structure to collapse. Five additional first responders were injured in the incident as well.

Khalil and Jaghama purposefully started a fire in the early hours of June 18, 2022, in order to later receive a hefty insurance payout—more than $400,000. A guy lost his life and numerous others were put in danger when the plot tragically failed. Khalil may receive a minimum term of 17 years to life in jail, while Jaghama may receive a minimum sentence of seven years to life in prison.

“This fire wasn’t an accident or act of God,” U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero stated, adding that “but for these defendants, it never would have started, the building would still stand, and Lt. Williamson would still be with his family – a wholly preventable tragedy, sparked by greed.” The U.S. Attorney’s Office released details that highlighted the senselessness of the crime.

The case demonstrated the threat arson poses to communities and was looked into by multiple authorities, including the Philadelphia Fire Department and the ATF’s National Response Team. This was emphasized by ATF Philadelphia Field Office Special Agent in Charge Eric DeGree, who stated, “Arson is a dangerous deadly crime.” The conviction of Khalil and Jaghama was made possible in large part by the cooperation of local and federal law enforcement. In fact, when dealing with issues that have broad implications, this kind of collaboration seems to be becoming more and more common.

In an effort to provide some measure of closure to Lt. Williamson’s family and fellow Philadelphia Fire Department employees, Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson thanked the U.S. Attorney and Justice Department for their tenacity in pursuing the case.

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