A shocking act of violence has left a Tennessee community stunned after a mother was allegedly set on fire by her own son during a heated family dispute.

A 32-year-old Tennessee man is facing a long list of serious felony charges after authorities say he doused his mother in gasoline and set her on fire—along with her home—after she tried to kick him out.

According to investigators, the incident unfolded in the early morning hours at a residence in Washington County, Tennessee. Deputies responding to reports of a fire arrived to find the home completely engulfed in flames, a scene that quickly escalated into a criminal investigation. Details of the case, initially reported by regional outlets, paint a disturbing picture of violence fueled by a domestic dispute.

Authorities say the suspect, identified as Dustin Tayler Machen, had been in the process of being evicted by his mother. During the confrontation, Machen reportedly left the property—only to return shortly afterward with a container of gasoline.

What happened next, police say, was both deliberate and terrifying.

Investigators allege Machen poured gasoline on both his mother and the house, then set them on fire as she attempted to escape. In an apparent effort to prevent her from seeking help, he also allegedly destroyed her cellphone, cutting off what he may have believed was her only lifeline.

Despite the chaos and danger, the woman managed to escape the burning home and flee to a nearby neighbor’s residence, where she was finally able to call 911. First responders rushed her to a local hospital, where she was treated for burn injuries to her arms. The full extent of her injuries has not been publicly disclosed.

Meanwhile, deputies quickly launched a search for the suspect. According to officials, Machen was located near the scene, not fleeing—but allegedly watching the fire from a nearby field. Law enforcement also used a drone during the search, which helped locate a backpack containing some of his personal belongings.

He was taken into custody without incident and is now being held without bond at the Washington County Detention Center.

Machen is facing multiple charges, including attempted first-degree murder, aggravated arson, aggravated burglary, attempted especially aggravated kidnapping, and interference with a 911 call. Authorities also noted that he had a history of domestic violence incidents involving his mother, adding further context to the volatile relationship.

Officials say the case remains under investigation, but the details already revealed have left many questioning how a family dispute could spiral into such extreme violence.

As the legal process begins, the focus now turns to the victim’s recovery—and the serious consequences awaiting the accused if convicted.