OCALA, FL – A heated dispute over the end of a marriage erupted into chaos late last month, as authorities say a Marion County man tried to set both himself and his wife ablaze inside their home.
According to officials, the incident unfolded on November 30, when 51-year-old Alfonza Green allegedly poured gasoline on his wife and attempted to ignite both of them. The act reportedly followed a confrontation sparked by her desire to end their relationship.
Emergency responders arrived at the residence to find Green suffering from burns and neighbors recalling scenes of panic and fire. His wife was found soaked with gasoline, visibly shaken by the ordeal but unharmed by the flames.
Investigators say the woman was using her phone in bed when Green, just out of the shower, approached her. She described noticing an unfamiliar cold sensation, only to realize moments later that she had been doused in flammable liquid. Her attempts to question her husband about his actions were met with chilling threats, according to deputies.
The affidavit indicates that Green, upon uttering fatalistic words about their fate, pulled out a lighter and tried to spark a fire. The blaze reportedly caught him and the bed, and he tried to block his wife’s escape in an attempt to ensure they would both suffer the consequences.
Despite the dangerous escalation, the victim managed to flee the room, and the fire did not claim any other victims. Six people, among them an 11-year-old grandson of the woman, were inside the home when the fire erupted, but escaped without injuries.
Green was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Marion County Jail, where he remains held without bond. During questioning, Green reportedly admitted to arguing with his wife and pouring gasoline on the bed because he was overwhelmed by despair, but denied targeting her specifically.
Authorities have charged Green with attempted first-degree murder and arson. The investigation is ongoing as officials continue to piece together the moments leading up to the harrowing encounter.
No further injuries were reported, and the home sustained fire damage from the incident. Community members in Ocala expressed shock at the violent turn of events that endangered an entire household.