CASTLE SHANNON, PA – Authorities say a 46-year-old Castle Shannon man set his family’s home ablaze with gasoline, resulting in the death of his teenage daughter and serious injuries to his wife Sunday morning.

Emergency crews rushed to the 800 block of Corbett Drive shortly before 10 a.m., after receiving multiple urgent calls reporting a rapidly spreading fire. Flames engulfed the residence by the time firefighters arrived, trapping two people inside—Brian Shelleby’s wife and their 19-year-old daughter, Lakyn Shelleby.

According to investigators, Shelleby’s wife managed to escape, but their daughter could not be reached in time by firefighters. She was found unresponsive inside the home after the fire was brought under control and was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as neighbors reacted immediately to the blaze, with some attempting to break windows and reach Lakyn amid thick black smoke. One neighbor said the house was engulfed in flames in mere seconds, underscoring the speed and intensity of the inferno. A five-gallon gas can was later found in the street among the debris.

Official documents allege that Brian Shelleby poured gasoline throughout both levels of the house following a confrontation with his wife. She reportedly told him he could not remain at the residence because the couple was separated. Shelleby allegedly responded by threatening to set the house on fire.

With gasoline spread across the home, Shelleby’s wife frantically urged their daughter to escape. In the moments that followed, the fire erupted, trapping Lakyn inside.

Police took Shelleby into custody at the scene. According to court papers, he later confessed to starting the fire, telling investigators he had tried to persuade his wife to let him stay. When she refused, he allegedly retrieved gasoline from the garage and deliberately poured it through the house.

Shelleby is facing charges including criminal homicide, arson, and causing or risking catastrophe. He is being held as authorities continue their investigation into the fatal incident.

Lakyn Shelleby was a second-year student at the University of Pittsburgh and had recently graduated from Keystone Oaks High School. Friends, family, and community members gathered Monday evening at a vigil to honor her life and memory.

The tragedy has shaken neighbors and classmates alike, with residents expressing shock over the sudden loss and recounting efforts to save Lakyn amid the fire. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to piece together details leading up to the deadly blaze.