Homestead Man Allegedly Sets Own Father On Fire

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HOMESTEAD (CBSMiami) -- The hunt is on for a man who, police say, intentionally lit his father on fire, leaving him in critical condition.

Police said it happened Saturday morning at 730 N.W. 17th Street, after an argument between the victim and his son, 38-year-old Tabias Rollins.

"During the argument, Rollins decided to douse his father with gasoline and light him on fire," said Det. Fernando Morales of the Homestead Police Dept. "Fire was able to get here on time, extinguish the fire and airlift the father to Kendall Regional Medical Center."

The victim's daughter said her father's defiance during the dispute fueled her brother's actions.

"My mom was beside him and my dad was wide awake," said Canitra Rollins. "My dad dared him he won't pour the gas. He poured the gasoline on him and tried to light him on fire."

A woman who lives a few houses away preferred staying anonymous when she told CBS4, "The man who was burned is very kind and always helping others."

She went on to say Rollins was always causing problems and neighbors, including her, have called police on him before.

Detective Morales confirmed that saying, "He does have a past history with the Homestead Police Department."

Investigators say Rollins is still at large and was last seen fleeing the fire in a white 2000 Cadillac with a black top.