The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Florida octogenarian was arrested after the authorities alleged he had intentionally set fire to a vehicle while his former partner was still inside, leaving both of them with serious burn injuries.
According to the authorities, the woman was diagnosed with third-degree burns to one of her legs, while the suspect had burns to his hands and face. Both were initially taken to a local hospital before they were transferred to the burn unit at another medical facility because of the severity of their injuries.
Investigators alleged that the pair had been in a relationship for more than four decades, and they had recently ended it. Though they had broken up, they reportedly spent part of the day together before an argument broke out while they were sitting inside a vehicle.
The authorities alleged the suspect had been drinking before he produced a plastic container filled with gasoline and reportedly poured the fuel across the vehicle’s dashboard and front seats. He then allegedly used a lighter to ignite the gasoline while the woman remained inside the vehicle, causing the interior to become engulfed in flames.
According to investigators, the woman later told deputies she believed the suspect intended to burn her inside the vehicle. The authorities also alleged surveillance video captured the incident and supported the account she provided them during the investigation.
The suspect declined to speak with investigators, according to the arrest records.
The man was taken into custody on suspicion of multiple charges, including attempted murder, arson causing bodily harm, and criminal attempt solicitation. He was booked into the Broward County Main Jail, where he remained in custody without bond.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.