United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero has announced that Tyrone Wise, a 34-year-old resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, received a sentence of five years in prison. This decision was made by United States District Court Judge Timothy J. Savage and includes three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
Wise had previously entered a guilty plea to a one-count indictment for malicious damage by means of fire to a building involved in interstate commerce. He confessed to setting the fire on May 31, 2020, at approximately 8:49 p.m., during a period marked by both lawful protests and unlawful civil disturbances in Philadelphia. The fire occurred at the SunRay Drugs Pharmacy situated on the first floor of 25 South 60th Street in West Philadelphia.
The fire inflicted severe damage due to flames, water, and smoke affecting not only the pharmacy but also the entire building. This included damages extending to the basement and apartments located on the second and third floors. The estimated damage amounted to $1.2 million, resulting in the closure of that SunRay Drugs location.
“Tyrone Wise’s actions were incredibly dangerous,” remarked U.S. Attorney Romero. She emphasized Wise's disregard for residents living above the pharmacy, potential spread risks to neighboring structures, and dangers posed to first responders battling the blaze. Romero reaffirmed her office's commitment alongside investigative partners to prosecute arson offenders fully.
Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division stated: “Tyrone Wise took advantage of the lawlessness of the moment to torch this drug store and extensively damage people’s apartments for no reason.” DeGree highlighted arson's destructive impact on communities and its threat to safety through injury or death risks.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Philadelphia Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Jayne is handling prosecution responsibilities for this case.