TAMPA, Fla. — A man has been charged with first-degree murder following the death of a victim he set on fire, according to deputies.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) reported the arrest of Earl Hargrove, Jr., a 34-year-old individual, who allegedly threw gasoline on another man and ignited him.
Investigators stated that on May 28, around 4:30 p.m., two men were observed arguing at a Mobil gas station located at 14516 N 22nd Street.
Deputies revealed that Hargrove purchased a small quantity of gasoline from the gas station and proceeded to pour it on the victim before setting him on fire.
The critically injured man was promptly rushed to Tampa General Hospital, where he was grappling with life-threatening injuries.
Tragically, after an extensive battle, the victim, a man in his 60s, succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday, as stated by the sheriff’s office.
Initially, Hargrove faced charges of aggravated battery causing great bodily harm and first-degree attempted murder. However, he is now confronted with further accusations of premeditated first-degree murder.
Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed, “A verbal argument should never escalate to this level of violence.
This suspect’s behavior is not only deplorable but will never be tolerated in our community. The suspect, in this case, is currently behind bars while we wait for justice to be served.”
