Son Convicted of Malice Murder and Arson in Father’s Death, Sentenced to Life in Prison in Fayette County
On September 12, 2024, Griffin Leach was convicted on multiple charges, including Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony, Arson in the First Degree, and Concealing the Death of Another.
The case stems from a tragic incident on January 12, 2023, when deputies responded to a fire assist call at 246 Porter Road, where they found the residence fully engulfed in flames. During the investigation, a body was discovered in the master bedroom, identified as Leach’s father.
Griffin Leach, the homeowner’s son, drew attention when he was stopped by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office while driving near the scene. He claimed that his father had committed suicide and ignited the fire; however, a revolver was found in his possession, raising suspicions.
An extensive investigation conducted by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Investigations Division, led by Detective Zaj, resulted in Leach being charged with the murder of his father.
Following his conviction, Leach was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, plus an additional 35 years. Sheriff Babb expressed gratitude to all involved in the investigation, including the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office staff, the State Fire Marshal’s Office Investigators, and Fayette County Fire and Emergency Services.
