A Tennessee man is now facing upgraded charges after authorities say he set a woman on fire, leaving her with burns over most of her body before she later died in the hospital.
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as 39-year-old Christopher Medula, who was originally charged with attempted first-degree murder, aggravated arson, and aggravated assault. After the victim, 58-year-old Angela Palacio, died from her injuries, prosecutors confirmed that charges would be elevated to first-degree murder.
The attack happened on November 11, when deputies were called to a property after neighbors reported seeing a camper on fire and a severely burned woman outside. Responding officers found Palacio conscious in the driveway with third-degree burns on more than 70 percent of her body.
Before she was airlifted for emergency treatment, Palacio identified her attacker, telling first responders, “Chris did it. He poured gas on me. He’s lost it.” She later died after being taken off life support, according to local reports.
Witness Steve Ellis told investigators that he held Medula at gunpoint until officers arrived. During that time, Medula allegedly told witnesses he was “Jesus” and claimed he “had to do it” because Palacio was “poisoning the world.”
Deputies noted that Medula smelled strongly of gasoline and was found carrying a lighter when taken into custody. When questioned, he reportedly admitted, “I poured gas on her.”
A judge has ordered a forensic mental evaluation to determine whether Medula is competent to stand trial. He is currently being held in the Hamilton County Jail, with a court appearance scheduled for February 9, 2026.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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