Dateline NBC Burning Suspicion on Addison Avenue
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Mar 31, 2026 A deadly cottage fire in Palo Alto is reexamined as investigators uncover signs of arson. Forensic evidence suggests strangulation before the blaze. Deleted texts, phone data, and surveillance create a tense timeline. Courtroom drama unfolds as defense and prosecution clash over science, alibis, and credibility.
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Fire Destroyed Cottage After Birthday Celebration
- A fatal fire destroyed the Palo Alto cottage and claimed a resident identified as Jennifer Skipsy.
- Keith Morrison recounts the couple's glamorous lifestyle, their move to the Addison Avenue cottage, and the birthday party the night before the blaze.
Initial Suspects Were Two Brothers Then Cleared
- Paul Zumot originally pointed investigators toward two brothers, Hisham and Tony Ghanma, claiming prior threats and restraining orders.
- Police cleared the brothers with video and receipts, shifting focus to Paul as a suspect.
Forensics Showed Arson And Preexisting Homicide
- Arson indicators were present: a gas can remnant near the body and a police dog alerted to accelerant on the scene.
- Forensics concluded the fire was set and the victim, Jennifer, was strangled before the house was torched.