New Mexico man accused of trying to set wife on fire over stimulus check

ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico — A New Mexico man is facing charges after police say he became enraged he didn’t qualify for a Covid-19-related stimulus check and tried to set his wife on fire.

The Albuquerque Journal reports Joe Macias was arrested following an argument with his disabled wife, where he allegedly doused her with gasoline.

The wife told police Macias had come home with a four-pack of beer and “upset because he did not qualify for the stimulus check.”

According to police, the 63-year-old Macias threw gas on his wife and their mobile home.

The wife told officers Macias then pulled out a cigarette and attempted to light it several times, but was unsuccessful due to the lighter getting gasoline on it.

Police said officers later found Macias walking down the street, his clothes soaked in gasoline. Officers also discovered the victim, her hair and pajamas soaked in gasoline, inside the couple's nearby trailer.

Macias is charged with attempted murder, kidnapping, and aggravated battery against a household member.

No attorney was listed for him in online court records.