NATION : Newlywed Sets Himself Afire

INDIANAPOLIS —  A newlywed who had threatened to kill himself during fights with his young bride set himself on fire after an argument with her, authorities said.

Marion County Sheriff’s Sgt. William Newman said Michael Pierce, 26, suffered burns over 85% of his body and was in critical condition early today in Wishard Memorial Hospital.

Newman said Pierce threatened suicide while arguing with his wife, Kathy. Mrs. Pierce said she heard a “poof” moments after her husband walked outside her grandparents’ home and got into his car.

Pierce was on fire when he jumped out of the car but it was not immediately known how he set himself ablaze. Newman said the couple married July 24 after a three-month courtship.