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Police: Mom facilitates video of son setting himself on fire

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police have arrested a mom in connection to a Facebook video showing her son setting himself on fire.

Police said Janie Talley facilitated the recording of the video.

Videos of teens setting themselves on fire has become a viral challenge on Facebook called the "Fire Challenge."

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A 12-year-old and a 14-year-old were admitted to the NC Jaycee Burn Center, according to Ernest Grant with the center. The two were from North Carolina. They underwent surgery after participating in the fire challenge.

There was a recent case of someone in New York dying after doing the challenge.

CMPD detectives watched the video that showed the victim pouring fingernail polish on his body and setting himself on fire.

WARNING DISTURBING VIDEO: Teen sets himself on fire

Talley, 41, was present and aware of what her son was doing and facilitated the recording, police said.

Other people who were there helped put out the fire.

The victim sustained minor burns to his chest and neck area. Officials said they believe Talley took her son to the hospital.

Talley was arrested Wednesday and charged with contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile.

Facebook officials have recognized the danger in this activity and have removed similar videos from its site to avoid copycat videos.

Police are strongly discouraging these videos from being made and the dangers it poses.
Anyone with information about similar incidents is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.