A Florida woman suffered severe burns after a stranger set her on fire while she was pumping gas at a Saint Petersburg gas station on Thursday. The incident occurred when the victim refused to give money to the assailant, who had initially asked to borrow her phone.
According to police, Eleanor Crawford, 41, approached the 41-year-old victim at a Mobil gas station. After the victim declined Crawford's request for money, Crawford used a lighter to ignite the gas nozzle, authorities said. The victim's vehicle was engulfed in flames, and she sustained second-degree burns. She was transported to Tampa General Hospital.
Crawford was arrested a block away and charged with felony murder and arson. Officials noted that Crawford has a history of drug and alcohol-related charges.
Assistant Police Chief Mike Kovacsev commented on the unusual nature of the attack, stating that while it is unclear if substances were involved, Crawford's history might suggest diminished capacity. He expressed relief that the victim was stabilized and expected to survive.
Scotty Gramling, a witness who was parked nearby, intervened by helping the victim into his truck and calling 911. Gramling described the blaze as resembling a "fireball." He had initially contacted authorities moments before the attack after observing Crawford in a dispute with another individual.
Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins spoke out against the attack, emphasizing the importance of public safety. "This happened in our community to a woman simply going about her life, and it is horrifying," Collins said. "People should be able to do something as ordinary as pumping gas without fearing for their safety."
Collins also expressed gratitude for the Good Samaritan and the swift response of law enforcement and first responders. "We will always stand behind the men and women who work every day to keep Floridians safe," he added.
