Woman severely burned after man forced way into house, sets her on fire, Sampson Co. sheriff says

ROSEBORO, N.C. (WTVD) -- A man faces multiple charges after the Sampson County Sheriff's Office said he set his girlfriend on fire during the weekend.

Deputies arrested 29-year-old Franklin Faircloth on Monday morning, about four miles from the scene in the 700 block of North Pine Street.

Faircloth, of Roseboro, was being held without bond. Court records showed that this wasn't his first assault case.

He was taken into custody after a two-day search. Investigators said he broke into his girlfriend's home, doused her with gasoline, and set her on fire. He was charged with attempted first-degree murder, first-degree arson, first-degree burglary, assault, serious bodily injury, and crime of domestic violence.

The victim suffered burns to her arms, legs, chest and back. She was taken by helicopter to a trauma center, where she is recovering.

Neighbors described a chaotic scene.

"It was honestly terrible," said Emily Williams. "Like, you know, there's a lot of police out there, you know, it was, it was chaotic, you know, it was a lot, actually."

Investigators said Faircloth fled on a bike and was found in a wooded area off Butler Island Road.

Faircloth was twice charged with assault on a female in 2022, court records showed.

Williams said she was relieved he's off the streets.

"It's really sad that somebody like that would do another, to do that to another person," Williams said.

Faircloth is expected in court on Thursday.

The victim's family is asking for prayers as she recovers. Though they asked for privacy during this difficult time, the family sent ABC11 a statement.

"We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support. At this time, we humbly ask for privacy. We understand the curiosity around this situation," the family wrote. "However, this is real life for us and a very traumatic event. We need time to heal and nurture our family. What we will say is please continue to pray for her and our family."

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