Flint Man Convicted of Arson Murder in Father's 2023 Death

Franklin La-Wan Richard, a 42-year-old Flint man, was found guilty of first-degree murder, felony murder, and arson for setting fire to his father Fred Gordon's apartment on Penbrook Lane in 2023. The fire, which occurred on August 23, was preceded by reports from a tenant below of domestic violence and threats from Richard to burn the apartment down. Richard was seen jumping from a second-floor balcony as flames engulfed the apartment, but his frail 78-year-old father was unable to escape and died in the blaze. Testimony revealed Richard was under the influence of drugs at the time, but the jury concluded he was still aware of his actions. Prosecutor David Leyton called the case tragic and stated that justice has been served. Richard faces life in prison without the possibility of parole when sentenced in October 2025.