'Human torch' threat man sets himself on fire by accident

A MAN doused himself in lighter fluid, threatened to set himself on fire, changed his mind . . . and then went up in flames after lighting a cigarette as he waited for the emergency services.

A MAN who threatened to set himself on fire and then apparently changed his mind went up in flames after lighting a cigarette as he waited for the emergency services.

The man was taken to Rotherham General Hospital where he was treated for burns to his torso, hands and arms.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The victim was discovered lying on the floor in the hall of his home in Copley Place, Masbrough.

The carpet and walls were damaged by the flames.

A spokesman for South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue said: “We received a call to say a man had doused himself in lighter fluid and was threatening to set himself on fire.

“We believe that he had changed his mind but then went to light a cigarette and he went up in flames.

“Fortunately, a neighbour was with the man at the time of the incident and was able to put the flames out.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Luckily, the burns were fairly minor, the fire had been quickly put out and the fire crews that attended were able to limit their involvement to assisting with first aid.”

The incident happened at around 11.30pm on Tuesday. The man involved has not been named.