Florida Teen Accused of Setting Friend on Fire During Gasoline Prank

Disturbing video shows the teen pouring gasoline on his friend as peers laughed

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A 17-year-old Florida teen named Bradey Ming has been arrested for felony aggravated battery after allegedly setting his friend on fire during a gasoline-fueled prank on Kauffman Island in Lake Kerr. Disturbing video footage shows Ming pouring gasoline on the fire and then running over to his seated friend, dumping the flammable liquid on him. The friend suffered second-degree burns on his legs, arms, and hands and was airlifted to the hospital.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of reckless behavior and the potential for serious harm, even when done in a group setting. It raises concerns about peer pressure, the influence of alcohol, and the need for better education around fire and chemical safety, especially among teenagers.

The details

According to the Marion County Sheriff's Office, Ming and four friends were drinking alcohol and sitting around a bonfire on Kauffman Island when Ming began "messing" with a gas can. Video footage shows Ming pouring gasoline onto the fire, causing the flames to shoot up. He then approached his seated friend and dumped the gasoline on him, setting the teen on fire. The other teens can be heard laughing in the background. The burning teen was able to extinguish the flames by jumping into the nearby lake, but suffered second-degree burns on his legs, arms, and hands. He was airlifted to the hospital and treated for his injuries.

  • The incident occurred on January 11, 2026 on Kauffman Island in Lake Kerr, Florida.
  • The teen was airlifted to UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville on the day of the incident.

The players

Bradey Ming

A 17-year-old Florida resident who has been arrested and charged with felony aggravated battery for allegedly setting his friend on fire during a gasoline-fueled prank.

Unidentified Victim

The 17-year-old friend of Bradey Ming who suffered second-degree burns on his legs, arms, and hands after being set on fire during the incident.

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What’s next

Ming turned himself in to the police after the incident. He is being held in Marion County without bail. The victim initially lied to his parents about what happened, but his father later found the video and contacted the sheriff's office.

The takeaway

This disturbing incident underscores the need for better education and awareness around the dangers of reckless behavior, especially when alcohol is involved. It serves as a tragic reminder of the potential consequences of peer pressure and poor judgment, particularly among teenagers.