NATION : Chemical Spray Sets Youth Afire
- Share via
NEW YORK — An emotionally disturbed youth burst into flames when police sprayed him with a chemical used like Mace to subdue dangerous people, and the police department today suspended use of the chemical.
The spray, known as Captsun, was determined to be flammable after tests following the Thursday incident in which a Brooklyn youth suffered first- and second-degree burns, department spokeswoman Suzanne Trazoff said. When he didn’t react to the spray, police said, a Taser was fired at him, an electric stunning device, and he burst into flame.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
More From the Los Angeles Times
Podcasts
A series of small-town dog killings was a prelude to the violence committed by one of California’s deadliest serial killers.
The stories behind the most compelling cases from the people who know them best.
From punchlines to policy, comedian Esteban Gast and Sammy Roth explore laughter as a powerful tool for change.
