A terrifying ordeal for a mother and her two young children after deputies say she was doused in gasoline by her own husband.
The man allegedly responsible is now sitting behind bars in the Livingston County jail
facing a slew of charges. The Livingston County Sheriff says he's seen a lot but nothing like this.
"Only by the grace of God she got out of there," said Livingston County Sheriff Michael Murphy.
The incident started Monday night, at a home in Genoa Township, off of Brighton Rd.
"We were called to a road residence in Genoa Township for a possible suicidal subject, when we arrived on scene that individual was gone," said Murphy.
Then around 12:30 Tuesday morning, the Sheriff's office received another call from a woman inside the home.
"She told 911 at that time she was awoken by her husband pouring gas on her in the bed," said Murphy.
The woman also telling 911 her husband had a lighter in his hand and a rifle slung over his shoulder. Deputies later identifying the man as 50-year-old Michael Troy Mapes.
"He made some statements what he was going to do he ultimately left the bedroom," said Murphy.
The woman quickly grabbing her two children and leaving the home, but not without Mapes nearby.
"She heard the 50-year-old suspect hollering and heard a gun shot," said Murphy.
When deputies arrived Mapes was still inside the home, they tried talking him out.
"We were successful to some degree, but that varied throughout the day," said Murphy.
Deputies tried for hours, but eventually he got out.
"He did leave the residence, there was a shot pursuit in a vehicle, and ultimately we were able to get the suspect in custody," said Murphy.
Mapes is facing assault with intent to commit murder, attempted murder, preparation to burn a dwelling, fleeing and eluding, and resisting and assaulting a police officer.
"I’ve been here for quite awhile and I can say this is on of the stranger ones," said Murphy.
Sheriffs deputies say Mapes is a habitual offender. He’s currently being held on $1 million bond.
