Suspect in arson and stabbing of elderly Queens couple purchased ticket to children’s movie before being apprehended.

A manhunt for Jamel McGriff, a parolee previously convicted of sexual offenses, has culminated in his arrest following the brutal murders of an elderly couple in Queens. The suspect allegedly committed the heinous act on September 8, subsequently setting their home ablaze. In a bid to evade authorities, McGriff used a stolen credit card belonging to the victims to purchase a ticket to an animated religious film titled “Light of the World” shortly before his apprehension.

McGriff entered the Regal Union Square Theatre in Manhattan at approximately 3:30 PM on September 10, where he purchased the ticket for the film depicting stories from the life of Jesus Christ. Police arrested him in Times Square two hours after he made the purchase, acting on information acquired through the tracking of his credit card activity.

Following his arrest, the authorities charged McGriff with multiple serious offenses, including murder, robbery, burglary, kidnapping, arson, and identity theft. Police sources indicate that McGriff had been on the run for two days, during which time detectives diligently tracked every transaction made with the stolen credit card. This investigative effort ultimately led them to his location.

The violent incident that led to the manhunt began when McGriff approached the home of Frank and Maureen Olten, both in their late seventies. He allegedly tricked the couple into letting him inside under the guise of needing to charge his phone. Prior to this, he had attempted the same ruse unsuccessfully at another residence nearby. Once inside the Olten’s home, McGriff reportedly attacked Frank Olten, tying him to a pole in the basement before committing further violence. The couple was later discovered deceased by firefighters who responded to the blaze.

Detectives believe that Frank Olten was stabbed multiple times, while the circumstances surrounding Maureen Olten’s death remain unclear as investigators continue to piece together the sequence of events. Surveillance footage played a crucial role in identifying McGriff, who had previously been seen in a Bronx pawn shop, selling two cell phones shortly after the murders.

The case has garnered significant media attention, highlighting issues of public safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement’s response in tracking down violent offenders. As investigations continue, McGriff remains in custody, facing the grave implications of his alleged actions.