NYC Manhunt Intensifies for Suspect in Queens Double Homicide

Lead: New York City authorities launched an intensified manhunt Wednesday for 42-year-old Jamel McGriff, accused of killing an elderly couple and torching their Queens home on Monday.

Nut Graf: McGriff allegedly gained entry under the pretense of charging his phone before murdering Frank and Maureen Olton, ages 76 and 77, and setting their residence ablaze. Police warn residents to withhold entry from strangers and remain vigilant.

Timeline of Events

  • October 6, 10:18 a.m.: McGriff first approaches the Oltons’ home in Bellerose, Queens, asking to charge his phone. He is admitted into the backyard and, moments later, into the house.
  • 3:08 p.m.: Surveillance footage shows McGriff exiting with a duffel bag and paper bag.
  • 3:30 p.m.: Firefighters are dispatched to flames engulfing the Oltons’ house; their son, an off-duty FDNY paramedic, reports the blaze after an alarm notification.
  • Post-fire discovery: Frank Olton is found bound and stabbed in the basement; Maureen Olton lies severely burned on the first floor. Both are pronounced dead at the scene.

Suspect Profile and Warnings

  • Jamel McGriff, 42, was on parole after serving 16 years for a 2006 robbery and failed to register as a sex offender in November 2024-violating parole terms.
  • He is believed to be armed and dangerous; last seen pawning two cellphones in the Bronx on Tuesday.
  • Commissioner Jessica Tisch cautioned that McGriff’s modus operandi involves door-to-door deception until gaining entry, urging the public not to admit unexpected visitors.

Investigation and Public Appeal

  • No known prior connection exists between McGriff and the Oltons beyond this chance encounter.

  • A regional fugitive task force comprising local, state and federal officers is pursuing leads.

  • Authorities ask anyone with information on McGriff’s whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers immediately.

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