Watch CBS News

Teen Indicted On Charges Of Lighting Korean War Veteran On Fire

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) - A 19-year-old has been indicted in Alabama in the killing of an 85-year-old Korean War veteran who was doused with gasoline and set on fire last year.

Citing court records made public Wednesday, Al.com reports that a Jefferson County grand jury indicted Thomas Sims last month on a charge of capital murder in connection with Gene Dacus' death.

Birmingham police say Sims killed his neighbor Aug. 17 and stole his pickup truck and wallet. Witnesses reported a fire in Dacus' backyard and told investigators they saw Sims running down an alley with a gasoline jug. He was captured nearby.

Authorities say Sims admitted being present while Dacus was stabbed and has admitted to burning the man.

A judge has refused Sims' attorneys' request to grant their client bond.

 © Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.