Man Charged With First-Degree Murder After Arson Victim Dies
Saturday, June 14, 2008 11:41:28 PM

LAKELAND -- A man, who was burned in a suspected arson fire, died Saturday morning, and the man suspected in his death was charged with first-degree murder.

Michael Pearce, 31, was pronounced dead at Tampa General Hospital.

Neighbors said they saw Pearce run from the burning house Wednesday, screaming and on fire.

Thomas Nance, 36, was charged with first-degree murder and arson.

Detectives said Nance told them he was angry about a drug debt and he ordered Pearce to leave, but he wouldn't.

So Nance said he went into the apartment, and lit a glass of gasoline he put near a couch where Pearce was sleeping.

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