Man Sentenced in Detroit FF's Death

Mario Willis was order this morning to serve 41-62 years in prison on murder and conspiracy charges for paying an arsonist to set a blaze that killed Detroit firefighter Walt Harris.

Wayne County Circuit Court Judge Michael Callahan handed down the sentence for the second-degree murder verdict by a jury three weeks ago. Willis, 28, of Detroit, could have been given a life sentence.

Willis paid handyman Darian Dove $20 in November 2008 to burn down a vacant house owned by Willis' wife.

Harris, popular member of Engine Co. 23, was killed when the roof of the torched home collapsed.

Dove, who pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and testified for the prosecution, was sentenced earlier to serve to 17-30 years in prison by Wayne County Circuit Judge Linda Parker.

Investigators testified they were able to place Willis' cell phone within 220 yards of the fire when the call went out to Engine Co. 23.

The burly Harris was a minister, as well as a 17-year veteran of the Fire Department. A plaque in his honor was placed at his station house.

McClatchy-Tribune News Service