SHREVEPORT - Authorities said today that their investigation revealed a woman who claimed she'd been set on fire by three men in Franklin Parish had actually set herself on fire.

Sharmeka Moffitt, 20, was in critical condition today after the incident this past weekend. Police said she'd told then the men who'd set her on fire had also written "KKK" and racial slurs on her car.

Today, investigators said Moffitt's fingerprints had actually been found on a lighter and container of lighter fluid, and that other evidence also indicated she had in fact started the fire.

This evening, Moffitt's family released the following statement:




"Our family is devastated to learn the circumstances surrounding our daughter's injuries. While this was not the resolution we had expected, it is a resolution, and we appreciate the thorough investigation by the local and state police as well as federal agencies.

"We are sincerely sorry for any problems this may have caused and wish to express our appreciation for the outpouring of love, prayers and support we have received from friends, acquaintances, church organizations and government officials.

"Over the coming days and weeks, our focus will be on Sharmeka and her recovery. We ask that you continue to pray for her and for our family, and that you respect our privacy at this difficult time."

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