Cops: Fla. boy, 11, tried to set special education student on fire with Old Spice body spray

By: Crimesider Staff
Topics: Daily Blotter

Gulf Middle School in New Port Richey, Fla.

(Credit: WTSP)

(CBS/WTSP/AP) NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. - Authorities say an 11-year-old boy cornered a special education student in the bathroom of a Tampa Bay area middle school and tried to set him on fire.

According to CBS affiliate WTSP, the police report states that the boy "took a can of Old Spice body spray and lit the spray stream on fire." He then "directed the fire stream at fellow student."

The incident occurred Feb. 3 at Gulf Middle School in New Port Richey.

New Port Richey police say the victim was trapped in the bathroom stall and could not escape the flames. According to police reports, he was not seriously injured but his pants briefly caught on fire and the hair on his arm was singed.

The school's resource officer told WTSP it doesn't appear the two students involved had an ongoing issue. The student who lit the flames has a clear disciplinary record at the school. The resource officer also doesn't believe it was a targeted attack but more for "entertainment."

Police say the boy was arrested and charged with aggravated battery. He was taken into juvenile custody.

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by politicaljules February 8, 2012 3:21 PM EST: This is an OUTRAGE and the resource officer that said this needs to be FIRED!! ---->"The resource officer also doesn't believe it was a targeted attack but more for "entertainment."; Reply to this comment


by morris2196 February 7, 2012 12:31 PM EST: We will hear from him again.; Reply to this comment


by Cowcharge February 7, 2012 12:23 PM EST: Obviously we need to start requiring a "parent's license".; Reply to this comment


by Well_You_Aint_Me February 7, 2012 11:50 AM EST: His momma, the 11-year-old, must be so proud of him now. I know I would be so proud of my son who tried to burn a special needs child.

(facetiousness off).; Reply to this comment