Bennett : “3-Year-Old Boy Burned in Truck Fire”

BELTON, S.C. (WHNS/Gray News) – A tragic incident unfolded in Belton, South Carolina, when a 3-year-old boy named Bennett was hospitalized with third degree burns after his father allegedly kidnapped him and led deputies on a chase that ended with a fiery crash.

Bennett is currently receiving critical care at a Georgia burn center for third degree burns that cover 90% of his body, according to a GoFundMe page set up for the family.

The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to the situation after Bennett’s father, 31-year-old Joshua Dornellas, reportedly violently assaulted the boy’s mother before kidnapping the 3-year-old and fleeing the scene.

Deputies from the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office tracked the suspect, Dornellas, in an unmarked car to ensure the safety of Bennett, who was in the front seat. Dornellas reportedly made threats against the child’s life during the chase.

The pursuit crossed state lines into Georgia on I-85, where Georgia State Patrol troopers took over the chase. It was during this chase that Dornellas allegedly set fire to the truck, leading to a dramatic and dangerous situation for Bennett.

As the vehicle filled with smoke, Dornellas jumped out through the window while the truck was still moving at 55 miles per hour, leaving his son behind. The truck ultimately crashed into an embankment and burst into flames with Bennett trapped inside.

Authorities believe Dornellas had planned to harm the 3-year-old, but thanks to the quick response of law enforcement, Bennett was rescued from the burning vehicle and airlifted to the Augusta Burn Center for treatment.

Dornellas was apprehended by Georgia State Patrol and taken to Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. He now faces a multitude of charges in both South Carolina and Georgia for his alleged actions.

According to authorities, Dornellas has a history of violence, including leaving five children under the age of 11 unsupervised at home on April 21. He was charged with domestic violence on April 28, prompting the mother of his children to seek an order of protection against him.

The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office released a statement expressing their support for Bennett’s mother during this difficult time and asked for the community’s prayers for the young boy as he fights for his life in the trauma center.

The family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the extensive medical expenses, rehabilitation, and support needed for Bennett’s recovery. His mother, Chelsea, is a single parent of three and any contributions will greatly assist in their time of need.