Kalena Stubbs, 51, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault in Madison County Circuit Court and received the maximum 20-year sentence in the Mississippi Department of Corrections for dousing her ex-boyfriend with lighter fluid and setting him on fire during an argument on January 16, 2025. Madison County District Attorney John “Bubba” Bramlett described the victim’s third-degree burns to his torso, upper arms, and face as among the most severe seen, requiring months in burn units and nursing homes. The victim later confirmed Stubbs’ actions once able to speak, aligning with burn patterns noted by investigators.
Incident Investigation
Deputies responded to Stubbs’ 911 call and found the victim severely burned but his clothes intact, prompting her to admit changing them while claiming he fell into a fireplace holding lighter fluid. An open lighter fluid bottle on the mantle showed no fire contact, raising suspicions immediately, though the victim could not speak initially. He was airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center for treatment.
Sentencing Outcome
Bramlett stated the sentence aims to provide justice for the victim’s lifelong injuries. Stubbs must serve the full term without parole eligibility mentioned. The case highlights investigative persistence by the Madison County Sheriff’s Department.
