Search for Suspect in Torture, Murder, and Arson of Queens Couple

Manhunt for Jamal McGriff

• 🔍 The search is ongoing for Jamal McGriff, accused of a brutal double murder and arson in Queens.
• 🚨 Police have released a new photo of McGriff, a 42-year-old level three sex offender with a 30-year criminal history, released from prison in 2023.
• ⚠️ McGriff is considered armed and dangerous; the public is urged not to approach him but to call 911 immediately.

The Crime and Its Brutality

• 🔥 Police allege McGriff set an older couple on fire inside their Bellerose home after asking to charge his phone.
• 💔 The victims, identified as 76-year-old Frank and 77-year-old Moren Olton, were described as good neighbors who let him in.
• 🩸 Chilling details reveal Mr. Olton was found in the basement tied to a pole with multiple stab wounds, while Mrs. Olton was found severely burned on the first floor.

McGriff's Actions and Criminal History

• 📱 McGriff reportedly went door-to-door in the Bellerose neighborhood asking to charge his cell phone.
• ⏳ Detectives believe he spent five hours in the victims' home, likely searching for items to steal, before setting the house on fire.
• 💰 He was last seen pawning two phones in the Bronx and is also wanted for two recent armed robberies from the summer.
• ⛓️ McGriff previously served 16 years in prison for armed robbery.
• 🤝 There is no known connection between McGriff and the Olton couple beyond this chance encounter.