Anthony Green, a 60-year-old Syracuse man, received a life sentence without parole for setting a fatal fire on June 20, 2024, at a South Avenue two-family home, killing neighbor Shaquoiya Allison, 34, through smoke inhalation. Convicted in December 2025 of first-degree murder, arson, and three counts of attempted murder, Green’s actions followed a domestic dispute with his girlfriend Lorraine Green, who was upstairs with friends. Surveillance footage captured him casually leaving the scene amid visible flames, buying cigarettes nearby, and watching the blaze from across the street.
Incident Timeline
The fire erupted around 11 p.m. after police responded to Green’s argument with Lorraine, who wore a prosthetic leg and was partying upstairs—prosecutors argued he targeted her mobility to ensure her demise. Allison, asleep in a back room and employed as a caregiver, perished; Lorraine escaped with help. Though no exact ignition cause was pinpointed, investigators ruled out accidents and cited Green’s post-fire demeanor as incriminating.
Court Proceedings
Prosecutors highlighted Green’s history of domestic calls, alleged accelerant use, and a confession to another person, convincing the jury despite defense claims of insufficient evidence. Judge Mary Anne Doherty deemed the act “diabolical” and “so evil it defies logic,” ensuring he never walks free. Allison’s mother described her family’s devastation during sentencing.
Aftermath
Green maintains innocence and plans to appeal, per his attorney. The fire displaced eight residents and injured a firefighter; first-degree murder was charged due to its link to the arson felony.
