CHATTANOOGA, TN – Authorities in Hamilton County say a 39-year-old man set his grandmother on fire inside her camper, leading to severe injuries that ultimately resulted in her family making the decision to take her off life support.
Emergency crews were called to the Hamilton County scene Tuesday afternoon after reports of a fire in a residential area. When they arrived, they found an elderly woman in the driveway, severely burned, with little of her clothing remaining due to the extent of the blaze. According to law enforcement reports, the victim struggled to breathe as she spoke to deputies, identifying her grandson, Christopher Medula, as the individual who poured gasoline on her and set her alight.
According to arrest records, Medula admitted to investigators that he had intentionally poured gasoline on his grandmother and ignited it with a lighter inside the camper. He allegedly told officers that he “had to do it” and made accusations about the victim, which authorities have not substantiated.
A nearby resident who witnessed the incident told investigators they saw Medula exit the flaming camper as the grandmother stumbled out, severely injured. The neighbor intervened, drawing a firearm and ordering Medula to the ground until law enforcement arrived. During this time, the neighbor reported that Medula made incoherent statements about his identity and the nature of the victim.
First responders who arrived at the scene provided medical aid as they waited for emergency transport. They noted that the grandmother was able to deliver a brief statement to police before being rushed to the hospital, where staff found that burns covered more than 70 percent of her body.
Despite medical efforts, the victim’s injuries proved to be too severe. Family members made the decision to remove her from life support due to the extent of her wounds and poor prognosis for recovery.
Officials reported locating the lighter allegedly used in the attack in Medula’s possession when he was taken into custody. Medula has been charged with attempted first-degree murder, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault. Medula is being held at the Hamilton County Jail with his bond set at $1 million.
Court records indicate a hearing is scheduled for Medula later in November. Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances leading up to the attack.
The tragic incident has shocked the surrounding community, leaving neighbors and relatives grappling with the violence within their midst. No further information about a possible motive beyond Medula’s statements has been released by police.