Police: Disturbing Action Leads To Deadly Bensalem Motel Fire
By Joe Holden
BENSALEM, Pa. (CBS) - Police in Bucks County have arrested a man they say started a fire at a motel Sunday morning, killing his girlfriend and sending others to the hospital.
46-year-old Kevin Small of Philadelphia is accused of starting the fire that tore through The Lincoln Motel in Bensalem, killing his girlfriend – 46-year-old Melissa Bacon-Smith of Philadelphia.
Police say it doesn't get any more disturbing than this. According to authorities, Small doused Bacon-Smith with gasoline while she was smoking.
"I lost it," Small said over and over again when asked what happened.
He was apparently irritated at something she said to him so he left the motel, and got the gasoline.
Police say the victim, once on fire, tried to reach out to Small for help. Investigators say he instead turned away and walked out.
Police say small apparently called his sister, telling her Melissa now looked like Freddy Krueger.
Small is charged with Criminal Homicide, Arson and related offenses.
When asked by CBS 3 Eyewitness News what he wanted to say to Melissa's family, Small replied "I'm sorry."
Authorities say a number of victims were treated for minor smoke inhalation before being transported to the hospital. Small was treated for burns on his hands.
The hotel also sustained considerable damage.