An elderly couple cried out for help as their son allegedly assaulted them and set fire to their residence, resulting in their tragic deaths. Darius Hazard, 44, has been charged by the police with arson and two counts of murder after the incident in North Adams, Massachusetts. The authorities reported that Hazard attacked his 76-year-old mother and 83-year-old father during a confrontation, leading to a fatal fire.
Court documents revealed that Hazard confessed to hearing his parents’ pleas for assistance as he fled the burning home. He allegedly assaulted his incapacitated parents before igniting the house with gasoline and driving away. The North Adams Police Department stated that Hazard admitted to starting the fire on the property’s first floor.
Following the fire, neighbors noticed smoke emanating from the house and alerted the authorities. Hazard was later apprehended at a Walmart after failing to report to work. The neighborhood residents expressed shock over the tragic events and Hazard’s arrest, describing the family, including Hazard, as integral members of the community for many years.
Family friend Nate Shoot expressed disbelief at the allegations against Hazard, describing them as out of character. Another resident, Steve Leriche, struggled to comprehend the situation, stating that it was difficult to make sense of what had occurred.