Prosecutors say jealousy over his ex-dating his friend led a man to firebomb an apartment building—killing four people in a premeditated act of arson and murder.

Tragedy Fueled by Revenge

 July 14, 2025: Cook County prosecutors allege that 23-year-old Lontray Clark intentionally set a fire at a three-story apartment building in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood on June 26, after discovering his ex-girlfriend was potentially dating his friend. Clark is accused of throwing Molotov cocktails into the building’s front and back doors in a retaliatory act.

Lives Lost: Innocent Victims Caught in the Blaze

Four individuals were killed in the fire:

Regina Henry, 32, who was three months pregnant

Her five-year-old son, Jayceon

Regina’s sister, Destiny, 28

Brad Cummings, 76, longtime editor of The Voice newspapers and community advocate

A nearby family member said Regina went back into the burning building attempting to rescue her four-year-old son, unaware he had already been dropped to safety out of a window by someone else

Charges: A Reckless Act with Deadly Consequences

Clark faces 19 felony counts, including:

Multiple counts of first-degree murder

Aggravated arson, knowing people were inside

Attempted murder, residential arson, and related offenses

At a detention hearing, Cook County Judge Shauna Boliker ordered Clark held without bond due to “high risk and danger to the community.”

Steps Leading Up to the Attack

Prosecutors say Clark approached the building around 1:10 a.m., carrying a gas-filled container and later Molotov devices. He then fled the scene and disposed of his clothes at a family home. His cousin, who accompanied him, later testified that Clark admitted: “I just lit the house on fire.”

Fire investigators confirmed flames originated in multiple areas, including stairwells and outdoor common spaces—consistent with intentional action.

Aftermath: Trauma and Community Mourning

At least three other people were injured in the blaze, including a four-year-old boy hospitalized with serious head trauma and burns. Overall, 28 residents were displaced from their homes.

Rev. George Smith Jr., cousin to two of the victims, called the accused “a monster” and expressed grief for how their family life has been forever altered.

DA: “They Never Had a Chance”

In court, prosecutors stressed that the victims were unsuspecting and defenseless—sleeping inside their building when Clark’s violent act erupted. “They never had a chance,” a Cook County official said, underlining the senseless nature of the violence.

Final Take

This case represents a chilling act of violence triggered by personal anger and jealousy—with tragic consequences for innocent lives. Lontray Clark’s alleged decision to firebomb a residence in retaliation for his ex’s personal life has resulted in multiple fatalities and severe injuries. As Chicago grieves, the legal system prepares for a high-stakes criminal trial centered on premeditation, domestic violence escalation, and community loss.