Gillette Woman Arrested for Attempted Shed Arson, Citing 'Black Panthers' Inside

Authorities say the suspect used mail addressed to herself to start the fire, though her motive remains unclear.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:40pm

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An extreme close-up of a partially burnt envelope or piece of mail, the harsh flash illuminating the gritty, damaged texture of the paper, conceptually representing the evidence of a delusional arson attempt.Charred evidence from an alleged arson attempt exposes the disturbing details behind a Gillette woman's delusional crime.Gillette Today

A 45-year-old Gillette, Wyoming woman has been arrested and charged with third-degree arson after allegedly attempting to burn down a stranger's shed, claiming there were 'black panthers' inside. Police say the woman, Elizabeth Swenson, was seen acting erratically, rolling a barrel behind the shed, and using mail addressed to herself to start the fire. Swenson admitted to the crime but provided an unclear explanation for her actions.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the potential dangers of untreated mental health issues and substance abuse, as well as the need for better community support and intervention programs to prevent such reckless and dangerous behavior. The case also raises questions about how law enforcement should respond to apparent delusions or hallucinations that lead to criminal acts.

The details

According to the police affidavit, Swenson was seen by the homeowners acting strangely, looking through a nearby dumpster and car before entering their yard and rolling a barrel behind their shed. The homeowners called the police, and by the time officers arrived, the shed was on fire. Swenson admitted to starting the blaze, saying she did so because she believed there were 'black panthers' inside the shed, though it's unclear if she was referring to the activist group, the superhero, or the animal. Police also found burnt mail with Swenson's name on it, which they believe she used to start the fire. Swenson displayed signs of intoxication, with slurred speech and unsteadiness on her feet, and admitted to drinking earlier that day.

  • On April 9, 2026, Swenson allegedly attempted to burn down the shed.
  • Swenson made her first court appearance on April 10, 2026.

The players

Elizabeth Swenson

A 45-year-old Gillette, Wyoming resident who has been charged with third-degree arson for allegedly attempting to burn down a stranger's shed.

Gillette Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested Swenson.

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What they’re saying

“She later advised that she attempted to burn down the shed because of black panthers inside the shed. It is unknown if she was referring to the Black Panthers activist group, the superhero, or the animal. She did not clarify which one.”

— Officer Tanner Clemens, Gillette Police Department

What’s next

Swenson is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on April 16, 2026, where a judge will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with the third-degree arson charge. If convicted, she could face up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater mental health resources and intervention programs in communities to address underlying issues that can lead to dangerous, irrational behavior. It also raises questions about how law enforcement should respond to apparent delusions or hallucinations that prompt criminal acts.