Two suspects are in custody and officers are searching for three more after a small group of men was seen lighting a 47-year-old man on fire, according to Fairfax County Police.
Police Spokesperson, Lt. Eli Cory said the incident happened at the 4500 block of Commons Drive in Annandale, Va. at around 2:20 p.m. Sunday.
A witness called 9-1-1 and reported that a man was being assaulted by five-six young men. Lt. Cory said the group of men punched the 47-year-old. Then the incident escalated. The Fairfax County Police spokesperson said the victim was lit on fire as the witness was on the phone with police.
“—‘s now saying that they have set him on fire,” said a Fairfax County Dispatcher, relaying information to officers.
Police arrived on scene and found two males matching a suspect description given. They also found the victim’s burned backpack and jacket on the ground.
“I don’t know what would’ve happened to him if no one had reached out to us,” said Lt. Cory.
“They all have long hair and they’re all wearing masks on their faces,” said the County Dispatcher, who was also heard saying,“… callers thinking that they’re gang members.”
Lt. Cory said police are still investigating motive. They’re also looking into whether the group knew the victim before the reported attack.
Police gave general descriptions for the three suspects still at large. We’re told they are males in their late teens and early 20s.
The victim was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Lt. Cory said he suffered burns to his upper body.
