Tragic Fire at Texas Gathering Leaves Teenager Dead, Man Charged with Manslaughter


A joyous fireside gathering in Jacksboro, Texas, turned into a nightmare for one family after a teenager died from severe burns sustained when a man allegedly threw gasoline into the flames. 

The victim, 17-year-old Madison Lewis, was standing near a small fire in a metal barrel when 23-year-old Sebastian Lindsey allegedly tossed a can of gasoline into the flames "to make the fire bigger," according to police reports. 

The sudden surge of fire engulfed Lewis, setting her hair and clothes ablaze and causing severe burns across most of her body.

Sadly, after battling these horrific injuries for three weeks in the hospital, Lewis passed away on January 7th.


Adding to the tragedy, investigators revealed that instead of calling 911 immediately, witnesses at the gathering drove Lewis to the hospital themselves. Police suspect the presence of alcohol at the gathering may have contributed to this delay in seeking proper medical attention.

Sebastian Lindsey was arrested on January 8th and charged with manslaughter in connection with Lewis's death. He remains in custody without bond while the investigation continues.

In a statement obtained by Fox 4, Lewis's heartbroken mother, Ericca Hammond, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support and her focus on laying her daughter to rest.

The full details of the investigation, including any potential charges against others present at the gathering, are yet to be released by police.
 

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