Less than 24 hours after moving out of her apartment, tragedy struck in the most devastating manner. Police say that Stephanie Wiley’s former boyfriend returned in a violent and destructive act—setting her home ablaze and causing a fatal fire.
On Labor Day, September 1, at approximately 1 a.m., flames engulfed a second-story unit at The Hills at Fairington apartments in Stonecrest, Georgia. Inside the burning residence, Wiley, 48 years old, was trapped amidst the inferno.
Despite emergency responders’ efforts to rescue her, she was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to severe burns and smoke inhalation. Her death marked a heartbreaking end to a life suddenly cut short, leaving her family and community devastated.
The tragedy did not end there. Wiley’s young son was also inside the apartment when the fire broke out. Authorities managed to pull him from the flames, but he remains in critical condition, fighting for his life in the hospital.
The community mourns not only the loss of Wiley but also hopes for her son’s recovery amid the trauma and injuries sustained during the fire. The incident has left neighbors shaken and questioning the violence that unfolded so suddenly and brutally.
Fire investigators swiftly determined that the blaze was not accidental. Evidence pointed to arson, and authorities identified Wiley’s ex-boyfriend, 44-year-old Shawn Fails, as the primary suspect.
Neighbors confirmed that Fails had been living intermittently at the apartment but had left the day before the fire. The timing and circumstances raised suspicions of foul play.
Law enforcement officials acted quickly to apprehend Fails, who was located during a traffic stop in Lanett, Alabama, the following day. He was taken into custody without incident and now faces multiple serious charges: murder, arson, and aggravated assault.
The fire also displaced three other families living in the complex, forcing them to seek shelter and aid from the Red Cross and local support services.
The community’s response has been one of concern and sympathy, with many expressing their condolences to Wiley’s loved ones and praying for her son’s recovery. The tragedy has cast a pall over the neighborhood, highlighting the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of safety and vigilance.
Respect and compassion are due to Wiley’s family, especially her son, who is fighting through critical injuries.
As authorities continue their investigation, the community mourns the loss of a woman whose life was tragically cut short by violence. The events serve as a stark reminder of the destructive power of hatred and the urgent need for intervention and support for those at risk.
