BREAKING: A shocking case of arson that led to the tragic death of a 13-year-old boy has culminated in a nearly 11-year prison sentence for the perpetrator, Gregory John Walker. The sentencing took place in the NSW Supreme Court on December 23, 2025, marking a significant moment for the victim’s family and the community.
In April 1998, young Arthur Haines was enjoying his first sleepover at a friend’s home in Waterloo, Sydney, when Walker, now 58, threw a Molotov cocktail into the kitchen of the residence. The fire quickly engulfed the house, trapping Arthur on the third floor. He was forced to jump from a window, sustaining severe burns that ultimately claimed his life 11 weeks later.
Justice Hament Dhanji described the results of Walker’s actions as “catastrophic.” The court heard that after the fire, Walker displayed a “callous disregard” for the consequences of his actions, even boasting about the fire’s severity to a neighbor. “If you think that was a big fire, wait until you see my next one,” he reportedly said.
Despite his earlier bravado, Walker has since expressed remorse for his actions. As the case against him developed, he admitted in 2014 that he “wouldn’t have gone through with it” had he known children were inside the home. After a long pursuit by law enforcement, Walker was arrested in 2020, following a $1 million reward for information leading to his capture.
The court recognized Walker’s efforts to reform, noting that he established a not-for-profit organization aimed at helping young people. However, Justice Dhanji emphasized that this could not erase the pain inflicted on Arthur’s family.
Arthur’s mother, Julie Szabo, has been a tireless advocate for justice, publicly sharing her grief and guilt over allowing her son to attend the sleepover. “I gave him the biggest hug… I didn’t know at the time it would be one of our last hugs,” she recounted in a heartfelt statement presented in court. Following the sentencing, she expressed gratitude for finally receiving the truth about her son’s death.
With time served, Walker will be eligible for parole in February 2029. Justice Dhanji acknowledged the profound impact of Arthur’s death on his family and the wider community, stating, “No sentence I impose can right the wrong that has been done.”
As this case concludes, it serves as a stark reminder of the tragic consequences of violence and the long road to justice for families affected by such devastating events. The community continues to mourn the loss of a young life cut short and seeks solace in the hope that justice will prevail.
