Blind Man's Girlfriend Confesses, 'That's What He Gets'

In a shocking case that has devastated the Milwaukee community, Merchelle Adams confessed to setting her blind boyfriend’s home on fire, ultimately leading to his tragic death. The chilling confession has left many questioning how such a horrifying act could unfold.

Mugshot of Merchelle Adams, who set a home on fire, killing a blind man asleep inside. Photo courtesy of Milwaukee County Jail. Public domain.

The Fatal Fire

In July 2023, 60-year-old Anthony Winters, who was legally blind, tragically lost his life in a fire that engulfed his Milwaukee home. His girlfriend, 62-year-old Merchelle Adams, later confessed to deliberately starting the fire by igniting his mattress while he slept. With no way to escape, Winters died in the flames. When Milwaukee firefighters arrived, the blaze was so intense it melted one firefighter’s face mask.

According to the criminal complaint, a witness stated that Adams admitted to setting the fire, reportedly saying, “I set the fire,” and laughing. She allegedly added, “blind man in there… that’s what he gets.” Adams was arrested shortly after and charged with first-degree reckless homicide and arson. Investigators determined that the fire spread rapidly, leaving Winters with no chance of survival. The landlord stated that the two were boyfriend and girlfriend and had rented the home from him for the past seven years.

A Troubled Relationship

Adams claimed the fatal fire was the result of escalating domestic violence. She told the authorities that she and Winters had been drinking beer when he suggested getting food, but she refused because he was too drunk. This sparked an argument, and Adams alleged that Winters pushed her out of a chair. Fueled by anger, she later admitted to setting his mattress on fire while he slept, turning a heated argument into a deadly act of revenge.

Justice Served

On Aug. 23, 2024, Merchelle Adams was sentenced to 11 years in prison, plus nine years of probation after her release.

Justice was served for Anthony Winters, a retired factory worker who became legally blind in recent years; he had a great passion for painting and drawing despite his vision loss, according to his family. His sister-in-law, Doris Winters, shared that “everybody loved him” during an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

This tragic case has raised questions about domestic violence, especially in cases involving vulnerable individuals like Anthony Winters. Advocates hope that this incident will encourage more awareness and support for victims of abuse who may feel powerless to escape.

References:‘That’s what he gets’: Woman admits to setting home on fire that led to death of blind man sleeping on mattress | Woman accused of intentionally setting fire that killed blind man in Milwaukee