Carteret Man Gets Life in Prison for Valentine's Day Arson and Murder

A Carteret man was sentenced Monday to life in prison for strangling a woman to death and setting fire to her home in 2011. 

Harpal Singh, 48, was convicted on October 7 of felony murder, aggravated manslaughter, robbery, aggravated arson and hindering his apprehension.

On Feb. 14, 2011, Singh broke into the home of Balwinder Kaur, 44, who lived on Jansen Avenue in Avenel, strangled her, stole cash and jewelry and set fire to the house. 

Singh was arrested outside of his home on March 11, 2011.  

Singh must serve 85 percent of the term, or 63 years and nine months, before he can be eligible for parole, according to the release.