Florida: Woman accused of setting a motorist on fire at a gas station

The attack occurred on Thursday, September 10, 2026, around 8:00 pm at a Mobil station on 40th Avenue North. According to the St. Petersburg police cited by People, Eleanor Crawford approached the motorist, who is also 41 years old, while she was filling her vehicle’s tank.

The suspect allegedly first asked to use the victim’s phone and then requested money. After the driver refused, she reportedly used a lighter to ignite the gasoline at the pump nozzle, according to initial information provided by investigators.

The flames quickly engulfed the vehicle and reached the victim. A witness told FOX 13 Tampa Bay that he helped the injured woman into his truck before calling for help.

Police apprehended Eleanor Crawford a few minutes later, just a few blocks from the gas station. She is facing charges of attempted murder and arson. These charges are allegations, and her guilt must be established in court.

Authorities state that the two women did not know each other and that no motive has yet been determined. The victim was transported to Tampa General Hospital with second-degree burns. Officials indicated that she has been stabilized and is expected to survive.