Man charged with stabbing and setting fire to a man
TAMPA, Florida (TodayNews) — A man has been charged after he stabbed and set fire to someone on Wednesday night, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said.
Deputies were called to a residential area in Riverview, where they found a man with an upper body injury and severe burns. The victim was taken to Tampa General Hospital in critical condition.
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However, prior to their arrival, the suspect, identified as 53-year-old Donnie Adams, fled the scene, claiming he was about to commit suicide.
Approximately 30 minutes later, Adams was located in Manatee County. Adams then turned onto the Skyway bridge, got out of the car at the south end, and entered the water.
Authorities spoke to Adams, prompting him to get out of the water. In the end, the deputies entered the water and carried him out.
The sheriff’s office said Adams suffered severe burns, which appeared to be self-inflicted. He was transferred to the nearest hospital.
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“The efforts of our deputies to interact with the suspect saved his life despite the severity of his injuries,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “Our commitment to preserving life, even in the face of such a heinous crime, demonstrates the values we hold at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. We will work tirelessly with the State’s Attorney’s Office to ensure that justice is served and that our community is protected from such senseless acts of violence.”
Adams remains in hospital custody. He was issued an arrest warrant for attempted first-degree murder and arson.
The investigation is ongoing.
If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can call the Tampa Bay Crisis Center by dialing 211. You can call the national suicide prevention hotline at 800-273-8255.
