A Story County man was sentenced to two life in prison sentences for setting a house on fire in Guthrie Center that killed two young girls.

According to court documents, District Court Judge Brad McCall sentenced Patrick Thompson to two life in prison sentences for murdering his step-sister, 12 year-old Paige Exline and her cousin, 16-year-old Shakiah Cockerham. Judge McCall also ordered Thompson to pay $150,000 to each family.

Thompson was found guilty of two counts of first degree murder, two counts of attempted murder and arson by a Monroe County jury on October 8th. Thompson set a house on fire in Guthrie Center in May of 2017 that not only killed Paige and Shakiah, but also injured their grandmother Shirley Exline and their uncle William Long III.

Thompson’s step-father James Exline was sentenced to 75 years in prison for sexually abusing his daughter Paige in Greene County before her death. Thompson’s step-brother Noah is facing seven felony charges for allegedly sexually abusing Paige. His trial date is set for October 30th. However, court documents show that plea negotiations are underway.

Raccoon Valley Radio will bring you more information as it becomes official.