Suspect Allegedly Set Woman on Fire, Fled Scene in Mount Vernon Area: Police

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA -- Fairfax County Police say a woman is suffering from life-threatening injuries Saturday morning in the Mount Vernon area, after it appears that a man set her on fire during an argument.

Police are searching for Lewis Edward Reeder, who lived with the woman and fled the scene early Saturday, at about 1:40 a.m., according to police.

Police and fire units responded to the home, in the 4900 block of Keeler Court (see map below), for the report of a house fire and a disorderly man, police said. Firefighters put out the fire and discovered a 64-year-old woman who had been badly burned. It appears the couple got into an argument and the suspect, Reed, of the same address, set the victim on fire, police said.

Fire investigators, working alongside police detectives, are working to determine exactly how the suspect started the fire, police said. The victim was taken to a hospital and her injuries are believed to be life-threatening, according to police.

Detectives are asking for the public's assistance in finding Reed. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Needels at 571-221-8131. You may also contact Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-8477,or by email at, www.fairfaxcountycrimesolvers.org, or text "TIP187" plus your message to CRIMES/274637, or call the Fairfax County Police Department at 703-691-2131.

PHOTO of Lewis Edward Reed courtesy of Fairfax County Police