Man Lit on Fire, Dies

A man found dead inside his burning home in South Jersey is now being called a case of murder.

The fire department was called to the house at 24 Millbrook Drive in Willingboro around 12:45am Friday after someone heard a bang and then saw fire coming from the home of Ed McKinney, 31.

Police found McKinney dead on his living room floor. They said they believe that McKinney had been brutalized, doused in gas and lit on fire.

Neighbors said that McKinney had been in the house for about a year. He was separated from his wife and had family in other parts of New Jersey.

"The preliminary autopsy indicates there were some traumatic things done to his body that indicate it is a homicide," Public Safety Director Ben Braxton said.

Police theorized that the fire was used to cover up the crime.

"I'm shocked. It's sad. This is like unbelievable. I can't believe that he's gone like that. I mean he's a strong guy and nice, you know, tough kid.

Police said they have very little to go on right now -- no suspects, no motives and very few clues.

Authorities said a neighbor reported seeing someone around the house at the time of the fire. He was about 6 feet tall, African-American and got into what was described as a dark, Mazda-type small car.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to call the fire department, the police department or the prosecutor's office.

Article continues below

---

advertisement

---

Author: Copyright 2002 by NBC10. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.