A Mother’s Mind on Fire: When Mental Health Turns Deadly

A tragic incident occurred in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on January 25, 2025, when 46-year-old Roconda Singleton allegedly set fire to her home, resulting in the death of her 12-year-old daughter, Shamiya Stewart, and injuries to her two younger daughters, ages 10 and 7.

Investigators found that Singleton had removed the home’s smoke detectors, poured lighter fluid throughout the house, and deliberately started the fire. Authorities suspect she may have tried to trap her children inside, is a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding mental health and violence. She now faces charges of first-degree arson and second-degree child abuse, which could lead to a life sentence if convicted.

mental illness does not automatically lead to violence. In reality, individuals with mental health conditions are more often victims of violence rather than offenders.

certain factors can heighten the risk of aggressive behavior in some individuals with mental illness.

Factors That May Contribute to Violence:

• Substance Use Disorders: Co-occurring substance abuse significantly elevates the risk of violent incidents. Mixing alcoholism with antisocial personality disorder, for example, drastically increases the risk of homicide in women source.
• Specific Symptoms: Certain mental health symptoms can, in some instances, lead to aggression. These include:
  • Paranoid Beliefs: Believing that others intend to harm you or that external forces control your mind.
  • Command Hallucinations: Hallucinations that involve instructions or commands.
  • Manic or Dementia States: Extreme mood swings or confusion that can cause aggression.
  • Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED): A disorder characterized by frequent, impulsive anger outbursts that are disproportionate to the situation.
• Untreated Mental Illness: Without proper treatment and support, symptoms can worsen and increase the risk of violent behavior.

Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED): Given the details of the news story, it’s worth briefly addressing IED. This disorder involves repeated, sudden episodes of impulsive, aggressive, or violent behavior or angry verbal outbursts. These outbursts are often triggered by minor incidents and are out of proportion to the situation.

Symptoms of IED can include:

• Frequent temper tantrums
• Heated arguments and shouting
• Physical fights
• Property damage
• Feelings of rage, irritability, and tension before an outburst
• Guilt, regret, and embarrassment after an outburst

Important Considerations:

• Stigma: It is essential to avoid stigmatizing individuals with mental illness.
• Context Matters: Understanding the individual’s history, circumstances, and specific symptoms is crucial in assessing the risk of violence.
• Treatment and Support: Providing adequate mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and social support can significantly reduce the risk of violence.

In Roconda Singleton’s case, it’s important to remember that a psychological exam has been ordered, and her mental health may have played a role.

Get Help: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or experiencing violent thoughts, seek help immediately. Contact healthcare provider or a mental health professional.