New Leads, But No Arrests After Dade Man Set On Fire
MIAMI (CBS4) – Detectives investigating a disturbing crime in which a man was set on fire outside a northwest Miami-Dade gas station on Christmas nigh have reportedly told the family they are following several new leads.
So far, however, there has not been arrest.
Darrel Bracket, 44, remains in a medically induced coma at the Ryder Trauma Center with burns over 75 percent of his body. His family said he underwent seven hours of surgery Friday to insert a breathing tube. After the tube was inserted, his family said he was more alert and able to follow commands.
According to police, Brackett and his girlfriend had dropped off guests after hosting a Christmas night cookout. On their way home, their van ran out of gas and Brackett walked to the U-Gas station at 4700 NW 27th Ave.
Brackett paid for gas then walked to the pump.
No one is sure what happened next, but a woman saw Brackett on fire and ran to help.
Brackett reportedly told the woman that three men set him on fire, according to his mother Bridgette Brackett.
Police are asking anyone with information on what happened to call Crime Stoppers at (305) 471 TIPS.
