Big Mac Bridge Arson Suspect Pleads Guilty, Sentenced Nine Years

Terry Stiles pleaded guilty to aggravated arson and arson charges related to the November 2024 fire that severely damaged the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge, also known as the Big Mac Bridge, resulting in a lengthy closure of southbound Interstate 471. He was sentenced to between nine and 13.5 years in prison and must register as an arson offender, expressing remorse by calling his actions "stupid." Zachary Stumpf, also charged with multiple counts of aggravated arson and arson, faces up to 38 years in prison pending trial, while Kaitlen Hall and James Hamilton face obstruction of justice charges for allegedly misleading investigators, which delayed the investigation. The fire caused approximately $13.5 million in damages to state and city property and disrupted traffic for 100 days, affecting nearly 50,000 daily commuters and local businesses. Prosecutors did not seek restitution from Stiles, and the investigation into the fire's cause remains unresolved. Stiles has a prior felony assault conviction, serving eight years previously for child abuse-related charges.