Woman burned when companion pumps gasoline into garbage can inside car
MOSES LAKE, Wash. (17FEB2018) – A woman is hospitalized with burns after a vehicle fire this morning which was caused by her companion pumping gas into a garbage can inside their car.
Responders were called about 8:15 a.m. today for a vehicle fire at Cascade Grocery, 8034 Valley Road Northeast. Deputies learned a 1988 Ford Tempo had parked at the gas pumps and the male driver had attempted to pump gasoline into a garbage can which he had in the back seat.
The female passenger, who was smoking a cigarette, apparently caused the fumes to ignite, engulfing the car. The woman got out of the car but sustained severe burns. A bystander drove her to Samaritan Healthcare in Moses Lake for treatment. Her current condition in unknown.
The male driver ran away on foot.
After the fire was out, deputies discovered a large quantity of marijuana in the trunk of the car. The vehicle was seized as evidence.
The investigation continues. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Grant County Sheriff’s Office at 509-762-1160 or email [email protected]. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
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