Michael Brewer, Boy Set on Fire, Tells Happy Back-to-School Story; Miraculous Recovery Continues

By: Carlin DeGuerin Miller
Topics: Daily Blotter

Michael Brewer (Reenie Brewer/WFOR)

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (CBS) When Michael Brewer was doused with rubbing alcohol and set on fire, allegedly by three classmates at Deerfield Beach Middle School, his doctors said he would be lucky if he ever woke up from his medically induced coma - today, more than six months after the incident, Michael is waking up to a new reality, and going back to school.

Josie Lou Ratley (WFOR)

PICTURES: Michael Brewer's Remarkable Recovery (WARNING: Some Graphic Content)

He won't be returning to the same school where he was attacked off campus in October 2009, and family members did not say what school he will be attending. But he told the Today Show that he is looking forward to it.

"I can't wait. I kind of miss school," Michael told the morning program.

PICTURES: Josie Lou Ratley, Steel-Toed Attack Victim

Michael survived the October attack by jumping into a nearby swimming pool. But he suffered second and third-degree burns over two-thirds of his body.

The three teenagers accused of participating in the attack have been charged as adults with second-degree attempted murder. Each faces a maximum of 30 years in prison. All pleaded not guilty.

Less than 5 months after the brutal attack on Michael, another classmate, Josie Lou Ratley, was allegedly attacked on the Deerfield Beach Middle School campus by the boyfriend of a classmate, who was enraged by a text message allegedly sent by Ratley.

Michael Brewer had some strong words for his former school.

"The school is terrible. I don't know why I went to the school," he told the Today Show.

As for Ratley, who is reportedly out of her medically induced coma and responding to her family- although still unable to talk- Michael sent his best wishes for as miraculous recovery as he has made.

"I hope to see her again and get stronger like I did every day...she can do it," Michael said.

MEDIA
PICTURES: Michael Brewer's Remarkable Recovery (WARNING: Some Graphic Content)
PICTURES: Josie Lou Ratley, Steel-Toed Attack Victim

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