Australian Woman Sentenced for Setting Friend on Fire After Party
A woman from Australia has received a 7-and-a-half year prison sentence for a shocking act of violence against her friend. Corbie Jean Walpole set her longtime friend, Jake Loader, on fire following a night of heavy drinking after he reportedly made a hurtful comment.
The incident took place in Walpole’s backyard on January 7, 2024. Reports indicate that she poured gasoline on Loader, who was 23 at the time, and ignited the flames. Loader suffered extensive injuries, receiving third-degree burns on over half of his body and spending eight days in an induced coma.
Walpole, who admitted to drinking heavily and using drugs during the party, pleaded guilty to a charge of burning or maiming with corrosive fluid. On the day of the incident, witnesses said that she consumed between 23 and 35 drinks.
The altercation began after Loader allegedly told her to "get back in the kitchen" and not to drink with the boys. After the attack, Loader’s friends attempted to extinguish the fire using a dog bed, and he was eventually thrown into a pool to cool the burns. During the chaos, Walpole reportedly expressed disbelief at her actions, exclaiming, “What have I done?” and claiming Loader told her to do it.
The judge in the case described Walpole’s actions as "unprovoked and violent," emphasizing the tragic consequences for both the victim and perpetrator. Judge Jennifer English stated, “This is a tragic case… two young lives destroyed.”
In court, Walpole expressed regret and noted that she has since quit using drugs and alcohol. She will be eligible for parole in November 2029.
