A 60-year-old woman from South Carolina has died nearly two weeks after suffering severe burns in an alleged attack by her boyfriend. According to multiple reports, Michele Gillis succumbed to her injuries on February 20 after initially sustaining third-degree burns on her upper body and face.
The incident took place on February 8 at the couple’s home in Edisto. Reports from WACH Fox 57 and WIS 10 state that Gillis’ boyfriend, Harry Wolfe, allegedly threw gasoline on her and set her on fire using a match. According to an incident report from the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO), Gillis told authorities that Wolfe entered the living room where she was sitting and said he was “going to get her” before dousing her in gasoline and igniting the flames.
After the attack, Wolfe reportedly fled the scene but was later involved in a collision with an Orangeburg Department of Public Safety emergency fire vehicle. He sustained injuries in the crash and was transported to MUSC Orangeburg Medical Center for treatment.
Law enforcement officials say Wolfe confessed to setting Gillis on fire but insisted he did not intend to kill her. A report obtained by WIS 10 also noted that Gillis had previously stated Wolfe had been physically abusive in the past.
Terrance Bottoms, Gillis’ son, told WIS 10 that Wolfe had called his aunt and admitted to setting Gillis on fire. He expressed frustration over the lack of immediate details from authorities, stating that his family only learned the full story through news reports. Bottoms also emphasized concerns about previous abuse, noting that if Wolfe committed such an act, he must have exhibited violent behavior before.
The case is being investigated as a domestic violence incident, according to WACH Fox 57. Wolfe was arrested and remains in jail without bond. It remains unclear if he has legal representation at this time. The Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office has not yet responded to requests for further comment regarding the case.
