Arizona Mother Dies One Day Before Her 59th Birthday After Backyard Fire Pit Explosion

A 58-year-old mother and grandmother died just one day before her 59th birthday after suffering severe burns in a backyard fire pit explosion in Arizona.

Tammy Dodson, who worked as a certified nursing assistant for the Department of Veterans Affairs, was injured on the night of September 24, 2026, at her home in Prescott Valley. According to family members, she was spending time around a fire pit with her boyfriend and sister when the incident occurred.

Her sister, Tina Carl, said the fire was beginning to die down when Dodson’s boyfriend reportedly poured gasoline onto it in an attempt to reignite the flames. The gasoline ignited, causing an explosion that engulfed Dodson in fire.

Emergency responders arrived after receiving a call about a burn victim. Dodson was transported to a specialized burn center in Phoenix, where she spent 10 days receiving treatment for extensive burns. Despite medical efforts, she died on October 4, 2026, just one day before her birthday.

Her boyfriend also reportedly suffered burns, but his injuries were less severe and he did not require hospital transport.

The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Dodson’s death accidental, citing complications from thermal injuries. However, authorities said the investigation into the incident was ongoing.

Her family described her as a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend who brought warmth and happiness to those around her. She leaves behind two children and three young grandchildren.

Relatives have also urged the public to understand the dangers of using gasoline to restart a fire. Gasoline can ignite suddenly and cause a dangerous flash fire, putting anyone nearby at risk.

As her loved ones mourn a loss that came just before a milestone birthday, they hope her story will help prevent another family from experiencing a similar tragedy.

Source: PEOPLE