Police arrest 3 in the death of Wheaton woman

WASHINGTON—Montgomery County police have arrested three suspects in connection with a fire that killed an elderly woman Wednesday in Wheaton.

Jose Antonio Alvarado, 37, Ana L. Rodas, 33, and Ramon Alberto Alvarado, 32, are all charged with arson, homicide and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. The trio lived together in the 12300 block of Downer Drive in Wheaton. They are being held without bond in the Montgomery County Detention Center.

Lila Meizell, 83, of the 10500 block of Inwood Avenue, died Wednesday night when a fire was started at her two-story home. Firefighters found Meizell lying unresponsive on the first floor of her home. They were able to pull the woman outside on her front porch, but could not resuscitate her. A firefighter and two police officers were also injured in the blaze.

Police say Jose Alvarado performed yard work at Meizell's home. They described a scenario where Alvarado tampered with payment checks in order to increase their value.

In attempt to prevent Meizell from finding out about the scheme, Alvarado devised a plan with his wife and cousin to kill the older woman. The trio decided to set fire to the house in order to cover up the murder.

The three suspects used the money to buy a car, computer, and clothes, police say.

The Montgomery County medical examiner said Meizell died of blunt force trauma, thermal injuries (burns), and smoke inhalation.

Police say Meizell was talking on the telephone when she answered her front door to find Jose and Ramon. Police say Ramon attacked the woman and set the house on fire. Police say he was also injured in the fire.

(Copyright 2008 by WTOP. All rights reserved.)