Teen Arrested After Video Shows Him Setting Another Teen on Fire

Gasoline used to ignite blaze that left victim with severe burns

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A 17-year-old in Marion County, Florida has been arrested after deputies obtained a video showing him splashing another teen with gasoline and then igniting the fuel, leaving the victim with second- and third-degree burns. The incident occurred while a group of four teens were "hanging out" and "drinking alcohol" around a fire.

Why it matters

This disturbing incident highlights the dangers of underage drinking and the potential for tragic consequences when minors have access to flammable substances. It also raises questions about supervision, peer pressure, and the mental state of the suspect in carrying out such a reckless and violent act.

The details

The video shows the suspect using a canister of gasoline to create a trail leading up to the victim, who then became engulfed in flames. The victim ran into a nearby lake to extinguish himself. The suspect has been arrested and is being held without bond. The victim was life-flighted to the hospital and is being treated for his severe burns.

  • The incident occurred on February 4, 2026 while a group of four teens were "hanging out" and "drinking alcohol" around a fire.
  • Deputies discovered the video during an investigation after the victim was admitted to the hospital with second- and third-degree burns.

The players

17-year-old suspect

The teen who was arrested for allegedly using gasoline to set another teen on fire.

Victim

The 17-year-old teen who suffered second- and third-degree burns after being set on fire.

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What they’re saying

“When asked why he lied to his parents, the victim told deputies the suspect told him not to, and that the incident was hard to talk about at all.”

— Victim (wesh.com)

What’s next

The suspect is being held without bond, and the investigation is ongoing. The victim remains hospitalized for treatment of his severe burns.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of responsible adult supervision, education about the dangers of underage drinking and misuse of flammable substances, and the need for open communication between teens and their parents or guardians to prevent such senseless acts of violence.