Authorities in New York City are warning residents to stay alert as they search for a man who allegedly tortured and killed an elderly couple in Queens before setting their home ablaze. The NYPD has released a new image of 42-year-old Jamel McGriff, who has a long criminal history and is considered armed and dangerous. The victims have been identified as Frank and Maureen Alton, aged 76 and 77.
The couple was found tied up and fatally burned in a house not far from a well-known racetrack, as police worked to locate the suspect. Surveillance footage captured McGriff arriving at the residence around 10 a.m., inquiring whether he could enter the home to charge his phone. Initially, the residents declined his request.
Afterward, McGriff continued on to the Altons’ home, where Frank was reportedly seen interacting with him before both men entered the house. Approximately five hours later, McGriff was seen leaving with two bags, heading east along 87th Drive. Shortly after this, the couple’s son, who is an active duty FDNY EMT, received an alert about a fire at his parents’ home and called for help.
Once the fire was under control, officials discovered both victims inside. Frank was found in the basement tied to a pole with multiple stab wounds, while Maureen was located severely burned on the ground level. Authorities note that McGriff has a pattern of distraction robbery, which involved engaging with victims before committing crimes.
Police advise residents to be cautious and not to allow unknown individuals into their homes. McGriff’s criminal history stretches back decades, including a significant sentence for robbery in 2006 and multiple recent alleged robberies in Harlem and Manhattan.
Most recently, McGriff was spotted in the Bronx with two phones. He was seen on security footage wearing a black hat, black jacket, blue jeans, and black sneakers while carrying a backpack. Anyone with leads is encouraged to contact the NYPD Crime Stopper Hotline or submit tips online.
