Woman Sets Friend Ablaze Over Sexist Comment

An Australian woman, Corbie Jean Walpole, 24, has admitted to setting her friend on fire following a sexist comment he made during a house party in New South Wales last year. The incident occurred after a night of partying, during which Walpole felt increasingly provoked by her friend’s antagonistic behavior. The final straw was a misogynistic comment made by Jake Loader, 23, which led to Walpole’s violent reaction.

Loader reportedly told Walpole that if she couldn’t handle drinking with the men, she should stay in the kitchen making scones. This comment sent Walpole into a rage. She retrieved a gallon of gasoline from the garage and doused Loader with the flammable liquid, brandishing a lighter in a threatening manner.

Despite being under the influence of alcohol and cocaine, Walpole followed through on her threat. Loader, who had goaded her into action, was set on fire. The incident resulted in Loader suffering burns to 55% of his body, including damage to his sweat glands. He was subsequently placed in a medically induced coma for eight days.

Loader’s recovery process was extensive, requiring ten surgeries and a 74-day stay in a burn unit at a Melbourne hospital. The severity of his burns has left him unable to tolerate sunlight due to the extensive damage to his skin.

During the trial, Walpole expressed remorse for her actions, stating that she had been struggling with substance abuse since a break-up in 2022. She claimed that Loader’s continuous antagonism throughout the night had pushed her to the edge. Despite her regret, Walpole found it difficult to accept the extent of the injuries she had caused.

Walpole pleaded guilty to one charge of burning or maiming by using corrosive fluid. She is due to return to court for sentencing later this month.