TAMPA, FLORIDA — Earl Hargrove, Jr., a 34-year-old Tampa man, now faces charges of first-degree murder and aggravated battery causing significant bodily harm, following the death of a man he reportedly set on fire at a Tampa gas station last month.
According to Hillsborough County deputies, the incident began as a verbal altercation on May 28. Hargrove allegedly purchased gasoline, poured it on the man in his 60s, and ignited him.
The injured man, initially hospitalized in critical condition, succumbed to his injuries two weeks later on June 12.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed his condolences to the victim’s family, condemning the act as “deplorable” and affirming such behavior will not be accepted within the community.
The case is still under active investigation.
