Man Sentenced After Arson Fire Destroys Trailer

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A Billings man who pleaded no contest to setting fire to a trailer house last September while his girlfriend and three children were inside has been sentenced to 20 years with the Department of Corrections with 15 suspended.

The Associated Press reports  District Judge Gregory Todd sentenced 37-year-old Shawn David Murray on Wednesday.

Court records say a 15-year-old boy told investigators that he and his brother were playing video games when he heard the sound of pouring liquid. The boy said he saw his father pour gasoline on the floor and set it on fire with a lighter.

The boy helped his brother and sister to safety. Murray's girlfriend at the time escaped through a bedroom window.

Murray has said he does not remember what happened. His defense attorney said Murray needs alcohol and mental health treatment.