Big Mac Bridge Arsonist Sentenced to 9 Years for $11M Blaze

Terry Stiles, the man behind the Big Mac Bridge fire, has been sentenced to 9 to 13.5 years in prison for arson that caused over $11 million in damages and closed the bridge for 100 days. Stiles admitted his 'stupid decision' led to significant disruption for 50,000 daily commuters.
The November 2024 blaze, ignited beneath the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge, severely damaged the 1000 Hands Playground and warped steel beams, necessitating extensive repairs. Prosecutors highlighted the reckless endangerment posed by Stiles' actions, emphasizing the community's hardship during the bridge's closure.
Stiles' arson not only destroyed a beloved playground but also led to a 100-day bridge closure, causing daily detours for 50,000 drivers and an $11 million repair bill.