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16-Year-Old Arrested In Penn Hills Murder, Arson

PENN HILLS (KDKA) -- Authorities have arrested a teenager in connection to a murder and arson in Penn Hills.

Initially, neighbors thought 17-year-old Teesa Williams died as a result of a fire inside the house she shared with her family on Azalea Drive.

But Allegheny County Police say Teesa had a gunshot wound to the head, which was not necessarily a fatal wound. She also suffered smoke inhalation because of the fire.

Police arrested 16-year-old Akeem Page-Jones. He is facing charges of criminal homicide, two counts of arson, reckless endangerment and possession of a firearm by a minor.

According to the criminal complaint, investigators found blood on a heat register, a bedroom door and on a dresser drawer.

KDKA's Paul Martino reports:

Authorities also found a .22 caliber shell casing on the bedroom floor and Williams' cell phone on her bed.

Witnesses say they saw Williams with Page-Jones the day before she was killed.

It appears he was trying to have a relationship with Williams.

The suspect lived down the street from the victim.

County police questioned him for several hours. His parents were with him. He's being charged as an adult.

An unidentified witness helped lead police to Page-Jones.

KDKA's Heather Abraham reports:

Stay with KDKA for the latest details.

RELATED LINKS:
Allegheny County Police
Penn Hills

RELATED STORIES:
Girl, 17, Dies In Penn Hills Fire
Penn Hills Fatal Fire Ruled Homicide
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