UPDATE, June 14, 2023:
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has charged a suspect with pre-meditated murder after the man he lit on fire at a gas station last month died.
On June 12, 2023, the victim, a man in his 60s, succumbed to the injuries sustained in this attack.
Earl Hargrove, Jr., 34, is already under arrest for the attack and is now facing additional charges of Pre-Meditated First Degree Murder and Aggravated Battery Great Bodily Harm. He has remained in HCSO custody since the original incident.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life in this case,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time."
This investigation remains open and ongoing.
Sunday, May 28, 2023: A man is under arrest for throwing gasoline on another man and lighting him on fire.
On Sunday, May 28, 2023, at 4:32 p.m., two men at the Mobil gas station located at 14516 N 22nd Street in Tampa engaged in a verbal confrontation, after which the suspect, Earl Hargrove, Jr., 34, bought a small amount of gasoline from the gas station. Hargrove then proceeded to pour the gasoline on the victim and lit him on fire.
The victim was taken to TGH where they are in critical condition with life-threatening injuries.
“A verbal argument should never escalate to this level of violence,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “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 in anticipation for justice to be served."
Earl Hargrove, Jr. is facing charges of Aggravated Batter Great Bodily Harm and Attempted Murder in the First Degree. Individuals that may have additional information on this particular case are asked to call 813-247-8200.