The Murders of Jimmy and Anne Choy (Massachusetts)
Dark Downeast
Deep Dive
Why did the investigation initially focus on the two children who escaped the fire unharmed?
The investigation zeroed in on the two children, Francis and Kenneth Choy, who escaped the fire unharmed because they were the only survivors and their accounts were crucial to understanding the events leading up to the fire.
What time did the fire call come in to the Brockton Fire Department?
The fire call came in at 4:56 AM on Thursday, April 17, 2003.
How did the emergency dispatcher handle the situation during the fire call?
The emergency dispatcher stayed on the line with Francis Choy, keeping her talking while waiting for first responders to arrive, and instructed her to stay near the window of her bedroom.
What did firefighters find when they arrived at the Choy residence?
Firefighters found no signs of smoke or fire from the street but observed smoke coming from a second-floor window and a person sticking their head out without calling for help.
What was the distinctive odor noticed by investigators at the fire scene?
Investigators noticed a strong, almost menthol scent described as similar to Vick's VapoRub, which was later identified as gasoline.
What did the accelerant detection dog alert to during the investigation?
The accelerant detection dog alerted to the presence of a possible accelerant on two articles of clothing: Anne Choy's pajamas and Francis Choy's sweatpants.
Why did Francis Choy initially return to the house after the fire?
Francis returned to the house because she was worried about her belongings getting stolen.
What was the outcome of Kenneth Choy's trial?
Kenneth Choy was found not guilty of murder and walked away free.
What significant evidence was uncovered during Francis Choy's post-conviction investigation?
The post-conviction investigation uncovered racist and sexually explicit emails between prosecutors, evidence that gasoline residue was not present on Francis's sweatpants, and a witness who stated Kenneth admitted to starting the fire.
What was the final ruling in Francis Choy's case?
Judge Galus issued a ruling vacating the two murder convictions and one arson conviction, and there would not be a fourth trial. Francis Choy was exonerated.
- A fire broke out in the Choy's home in Brockton, Massachusetts.
- Francis Choy made an emergency call and was rescued along with her nephew Kenneth.
- Firefighters found Jimmy and Anne unconscious and removed them from the house.
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