10-Year-Old Boy Suffers Second Degree Burns After Playing With Lighter

CHARLOTTE — It was one mother’s worst nightmare.  Her 10-year-old son suffered burns over 23 percent of his body after playing with a lighter.

The fire happened Friday night at a home on Spring Laurel Drive in East Charlotte.  According to his mother, Jared Chicas was in her bathroom with a lighter and a bottle of alcohol when it exploded.  His shorts were in flames.  His mother and siblings attempted to put out the fire.  Jared was rushed to Atrium’s Burn Center in Winston Salem in serious condition.  He’s undergoing physical therapy and is preparing for surgery.  Jared’s mother told WCCB News she’s thankful he’s alive.  She warns parents to always be watchful over their children.

The fire caused extensive damage to the bathroom and one of the bedrooms.  The family has created a Gofundme account to help with expenses.

If you’d like to help, click the link below.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-jj-family-rebuild-after-fire-injuries