GREENBELT, Md. (AP) — As victims of serial arsonist Thomas Sweatt spoke at his sentencing Monday, they said they don't understand what led him to set random fires that terrorized the Washington area for two years.
"I would love to just find out exactly why he did this," said Jean Kyler, whose 94-year-old mother still cannot return to her fire-damaged home.
Sweatt, 50, admitted setting 45 arson fires in the Washington area. He also pleaded guilty to two charges of murder. Investigators know how he did it — using jugs of gasoline and wicks made from clothing. But the reason why went unanswered as a federal judge sentenced him to life in prison plus 136 years Monday.
"To the victims and the victims' families, I'm very sorry for all the harm I've caused you. To those who have lost loved ones, I share your hurt every day," Sweatt said.