The cell phone video captured it all — the flames, the screaming and the pain. It will now be used as evidence in an attempted murder case in Maryland.
Baltimore County Police arrested Christopher Harrison, 28, on suspicion of setting two men ablaze Friday along a highway in the White Marsh community.
Authorities said four coworkers traveling in two cars walked to a gas station after one car ran out of gas, CNN affiliate WBAL reported. When they returned to their cars, an argument and a fight ensued.
The incident was recorded by David Widener, who told the affiliate he thought he was just going to record a fight. But the footage showed much more.
Investigators told the affiliate that Harrison doused two coworkers with gas before setting them on fire.
In the video, the flames erupt, forcing one burn victim to run up an embankment.
The other victim bolts across the highway on fire — screaming for help. He finally extinguishes the flames by rolling on the concrete. His clothes had burned off.
Police told the affiliate that the two victims, whose names have not been released, were being treated at a hospital burn unit. One of the men suffered burns over 90% of his body; the other had burns over 50% of his body. Both are in critical condition.
Baltimore County Police Cpl. Shawn Vinson said the video is part of the investigation and will “hopefully assist in the prosecution of this case.”
Harrison, who is being held without bail, also faces assault charges.
