Teen's Death From Burns Ruled Accidental

BIRMINGHAM, AL - An incident that left a teenage boy dead has been determined by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office to have been accidental. The Sheriff's Office was notified after a western Jefferson County teen died at an area hospital from burns received on January 14, at a home on Snowville-Brent Road.

Detectives began an investigation into the teen’s death, and the investigation revealed that, on the evening of January 14, the victim and two other teens were trying to ignite some type of paper near a deck to the home. When the paper did not burn rapidly enough, the victim picked up a five gallon can of gasoline and dumped it on the small fire. The gasoline exploded and showered the victim with flames.

Paramedics responded and transported the victim to the hospital. He died at the hospital on January 18, 2018.

An official statement from the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office states, "Foul play is not suspected in this death. Our hearts and prayers are with the family."

Photo from Jefferson County Sheriff's Office