Man, 84, Set Car on Fire With Partner of 42 Years Inside
An elderly man in Florida found himself in hot water after allegedly setting a car on fire with his partner of 42 years inside following a breakup. Franklin Davis, 84, was arrested on charges of attempted murder and arson after the incident at a 7-Eleven in Oakland Park on July 3.
According to reports from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, Davis and the victim were in a heated argument inside a car when he took out a bottle of gasoline and doused the interior before igniting it with a lighter. The victim suffered third-degree burns to her right leg, while Davis sustained burns on his hands and face.
The victim told authorities that she believed Davis intended to “burn her up” in the car. Security footage captured the incident, leading to Davis’s arrest. Both individuals were hospitalized, with Davis refusing to speak to police without an attorney.
The couple had been together for over four decades before the breakup a few months prior to the incident. Davis was arrested after receiving treatment for his burns and is currently in custody without bond at Broward County Jail.
During his court appearance, Davis was charged with premeditated attempted murder, arson causing bodily harm, and other related offenses. It is unclear if he has obtained legal representation or entered a plea. The investigation into the case is ongoing.
The shocking incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of domestic disputes and the importance of seeking help in volatile situations. It is crucial to address conflicts peacefully and seek support when needed to prevent tragic outcomes like this one.
