Maine Boy Severely Burned Trying to Light Fire Pit with Gasoline

12-year-old airlifted to Boston hospital in serious condition after flash fire incident.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 11:04am

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A 12-year-old boy in Topsham, Maine suffered severe burns after using gasoline to try and light a fire pit over the weekend. Emergency responders rushed the child to a local hospital before he was transferred to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where he remains in serious condition. A second child at the scene was also treated for smoke inhalation.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the extreme dangers of using gasoline or other flammable liquids to start fires, especially around children. Improper fire starting techniques can lead to devastating and life-threatening injuries. The case also raises concerns about proper adult supervision and fire safety education for young people.

The details

According to the State Fire Marshal's Office, the two youths were attempting to start a fire in a fire pit when they used gasoline to accelerate the ignition. This caused a flash fire that resulted in the 12-year-old boy suffering extensive burns to his body. The second child present was treated for smoke inhalation.

  • The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Friday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Topsham Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and is investigating the case.

State Fire Marshal's Office

The state agency leading the investigation into the cause and circumstances of the fire pit accident.

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What they’re saying

“This incident highlights the extreme dangers of using gasoline or other flammable liquids to start fires, especially around children.”

— State Fire Marshal

What’s next

The State Fire Marshal's Office continues to investigate the incident to determine the exact cause and circumstances. The 12-year-old boy remains hospitalized in serious condition.

The takeaway

This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of fire safety education and proper adult supervision when children are around open flames or combustible materials. It underscores the need for greater public awareness about the extreme risks of using gasoline and other accelerants to start fires.