New York Man Arraigned in Mother and Sister Murder
Kegan Thomas faces a 12-count indictment for a fatal July shooting and arson in Far Rockaway.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Crime — General
Kegan Thomas was arraigned on a 12-count indictment in Queens Supreme Court for the murders of his mother and sister. Prosecutors allege Thomas shot his family members before setting their Far Rockaway home on fire.
Why it matters
The case highlights the severity of domestic violence incidents resulting in multiple fatalities. Thomas faces the potential for life in prison if convicted on the murder and arson charges.
Kegan Thomas, 33, remains in custody without bail following his arraignment on a 12-count indictment. He is scheduled to return to court on January 15, 2027.
The players
Kegan Thomas
He is the 33-year-old defendant currently in custody facing charges for the murder of his family members and arson.
Clemer Ponce
She was the 66-year-old mother of the defendant who died inside the residence.
Selena Ponce
She was the 29-year-old sister of the defendant who also died during the incident.
FDNY
The New York City Fire Department is the agency that conducted the fire investigation and determined it was intentionally set.
The details
Authorities claim Thomas killed Clemer Ponce, 66, and Selena Ponce, 29, with a shotgun on July 25, 2026. The FDNY fire marshal determined the subsequent fire and explosion at the Far Rockaway residence were deliberately set, and the defendant was shot by responding officers after refusing to comply with orders.
Timeline
July 25, 2026: Thomas allegedly killed his mother and sister.
October 23, 2026: Thomas was arraigned on a 12-count indictment.
January 15, 2027: Thomas is scheduled to return to court.
Legal Context
The prosecution of these charges reflects standard applications of New York State Penal Law regarding capital-equivalent offenses. The case follows the procedural pattern required for prosecuting first-degree murder within the Queens Supreme Court system.
The incident occurred in a residential area of Far Rockaway, marking a rare and extreme criminal event for the local neighborhood. No specific safety advisories were issued for residents as the suspect remains in custody.
The takeaway
Domestic violence cases involving arson pose significant additional dangers to surrounding residents and emergency responders. Officials emphasize the importance of reporting warning signs of violence early to prevent fatal escalations.
What happens next
Kegan Thomas is scheduled to return to court on January 15, 2027.
Further reading
For more information on legal developments in the region, visit New York City Crime — General.
