Man Tries to Light Another on Fire, Gets Arrested

An argument between two North Tampa men turned violent last night when one tried to light the other on fire, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputies say.

According to a media release, Michael Tony Cala, 49, and Micah Williams, 27, got into a fight that turned physical around 10:20 p.m. Aug. 26 at William’s home on Choctaw Village Drive.

“The suspect began calling the victim a racial slur over and over again,” the release said. Cala then grabbed a gas can and began pouring its contents on Williams’ front porch.

Deputies say Cala kept yelling at Williams to come outside. When Williams tried to confront him, Cala began chasing him through the mobile home park, pouring gas on him and trying to spark a lighter.

Cala “yelled numerous racial slurs and stated to the victim several times, ‘Die, N------ Die,’” the release said.

When deputies arrived, they were able to arrest Cala without incident. He was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and battery.