Billy Terry, 44, of Taft, is facing a lengthy and difficult recovery after a woman allegedly set him on fire last Thursday.
Terry suffered severe burns over 70% of his body and has undergone multiple surgeries, including a second skin graft, at Memorial Burn Center. His father, Leo Terry, described the scene, saying, “His skin just falling off his body, that’s how bad he was burning.”
The incident happened during a campfire gathering on the 700 block of K Street. The woman, who worked as a waitress at Terry’s family-owned Hungry Grizzly Sandwich Company, allegedly threw gasoline on him. Friends nearby tried to help by patting him down and calling 911. One witness recalled, “When I came out, he was lying right there, and he was burning, smoking.”
Billy Terry’s family faces significant financial strain due to his medical needs and lack of insurance. They are considering selling the restaurant, a decision Billy begged them not to make.
Leo Terry is asking the community for support by visiting the Hungry Grizzly Sandwich Company at 700 Kern Street or donating to a GoFundMe. A fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday at 5 p.m. at the Bank Sports Lounge in Taft, featuring a 50/50 raffle, prizes, hot dogs, and popcorn, with all proceeds benefiting Billy Terry and his family.
The Taft Police Department has not yet commented on the incident, which remains under investigation.