PALM BAY, FL – In a troubling sequence of events, a Florida man stands accused of arson and attempted murder after allegedly setting fire to his girlfriend’s home following a Valentine’s gesture of flowers and chocolates.

William Clements Jr., 73, is detained in Brevard County Jail after police claimed he attempted to kill his girlfriend by igniting a blaze in her Palm Bay home. An arrest affidavit states that on April 4, the woman awoke from a nap, alarmed by the scent of gasoline and flames seeping under her bedroom door. Trapped by the fire, she was left waiting for rescue.

Witnesses reportedly saw Clements fleeing the vicinity hurriedly around the time the home caught fire. When emergency personnel arrived, they successfully extracted the woman and her dog through a window. The affidavit describes the woman’s dire state as “struggling to breathe, bright red and with peeling skin.”

The woman’s injuries were serious enough to necessitate helicopter transportation to a hospital. Reports indicated she suffered burns over almost 60% of her body and faced difficulty speaking due to throat burns. Despite these challenges, she identified Clements as the perpetrator, referencing past remarks he allegedly made about disfiguring women instead of killing them.

Authorities detained Clements soon after reaching the site of the incident. When approached by deputies, he reportedly remarked, “You’re here for me, right?”

Investigators found two ignition points in the home, suggesting arson, and discovered a red gasoline can inside. The woman’s friend recalled that the night before the fire, Clements had given her gifts, hinting at the complex dynamics of their relationship.

The affidavit and the woman’s account revealed a history of domestic violence, noting incidents including an alleged attack where she was zip-tied, trapped, and assaulted, resulting in the loss of a tooth. Photographs documenting her injuries were found on her phone.

Clements’ criminal background includes convictions for kidnapping and spousal rape dating back to 1993. He was on parole for these offenses during the time of the February domestic incident.

Initially charged with aggravated battery and false imprisonment in April, further investigation led to additional charges of attempted murder, arson, and animal cruelty. Clements remains jailed without bond.

Court documents show that an arraignment originally set for May 13 was later canceled, leaving Clements awaiting his next legal proceeding.