Hamilton County, TN – A Tennessee grandmother who suffered catastrophic burns over 70% of her body used her final breaths to tell deputies that her own grandson poured gasoline on her and set her on fire, according to an arrest affidavit. The victim has since been removed from life support as investigators continue building a case that authorities describe as one of the most horrific domestic attacks in recent memory.
The Incident: Grandmother Set on Fire Inside Her Camper
According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the attack happened Tuesday afternoon when 39-year-old Christopher Medula allegedly doused his grandmother with gasoline inside her camper before igniting her with a “Bic-style lighter.”
A neighbor reported seeing the camper catch fire while Medula walked out moments before the severely burned woman stumbled outside.
“Chris did it. He poured gas on me. He’s lost it,”
the grandmother told deputies between labored breaths, according to body camera footage described in the affidavit.
When first responders arrived, they found the victim lying in a driveway, her clothing burned completely away and her body covered in third-degree burns. A neighbor had placed a blanket over her as she struggled to breathe.
The victim was transported to a local hospital, where she was placed on life support. Her family later decided to remove her from machines due to the extent of her injuries.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
Deputies quickly located and arrested Medula at the scene. According to the affidavit, he admitted to the attack almost immediately.
“I poured gas on her,”
Medula allegedly told officers.
He then reportedly added:
“I had to do it. She was evil. She raped me.”
Investigators noted that Medula had a cigarette lighter in his pocket, believed to be the device used to set his grandmother on fire. A strong smell of gasoline was still present both inside the camper and on Medula’s clothing.
A neighbor, who witnessed part of the incident, told deputies that he intervened by approaching with a firearm, ordering Medula onto the ground until police arrived. He also recalled Medula claiming:
“She’s the devil. I’m Jesus.”
Authorities documented extensive fire damage inside the camper consistent with the victim’s statement and Medula’s confession.
Court Proceedings and Criminal Charges
Following his arrest, Medula was charged with:
- Attempted First-Degree Murder
- Aggravated Assault
- Aggravated Arson
Given the victim’s condition—and now her removal from life support—prosecutors are expected to review whether additional or upgraded charges are warranted.
Medula is currently being held at the Hamilton County Jail on a $1 million bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on November 17.
Legal analysts note that Tennessee law allows prosecutors to pursue first-degree murder charges if a victim dies as a result of injuries sustained during a violent felony such as arson. The sheriff’s office said its investigators are coordinating closely with the district attorney to determine the next steps.
Statements and Reactions from Witnesses and Authorities
Neighbors described the incident as terrifying and deeply disturbing, explaining that they heard screams and saw flames erupt before the grandmother emerged, gravely injured.
One neighbor described Medula’s demeanor as “detached” and “rambling,” telling deputies he heard Medula make bizarre religious statements while standing near the burning camper.
Authorities said the grandmother’s on-scene statement—captured on body-worn camera—is expected to be a critical piece of evidence in the case.
“The grandmother was able to give deputies a statement, recorded on body worn camera… between her labored breaths,”
the affidavit states.
Officials also said the neighbor’s intervention likely prevented Medula from fleeing the scene.
Background Context: Mental Health Concerns and Domestic Violence
While investigators have not released information on Medula’s mental health history, the statements he allegedly made during the attack raise concerns about possible underlying psychological issues. Experts say cases involving elder abuse, mental health crises, and family violence are becoming increasingly common.
Hamilton County officials stressed the importance of community vigilance and reporting suspicious or escalating behavior in domestic settings. Social workers familiar with elder abuse cases emphasized that senior citizens are among the most vulnerable victims of violent crime, especially when living with family members experiencing instability.
Ongoing Developments and What Comes Next
Authorities are waiting for official medical updates to determine whether the grandmother’s death will result in upgraded charges. Detectives are also reviewing past interactions, domestic calls, or prior complaints involving Medula and his grandmother.
The sheriff’s office said additional details will be released as the investigation continues.
Conclusion
The tragic attack has left a Tennessee community shaken, with investigators describing the case as both brutal and deeply troubling. As prosecutors prepare for upcoming court proceedings, the victim’s final words may prove decisive in securing justice.
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