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Spontaneous Human Combustion
Throughout history, people have allegedly burst into flames without external ignition. Victims are often found reduced to ash while surroundings remain unburned. Famous cases include Mary Reeser (1951) and Dr. John Bentley (1966). Scientists remain skeptical, but the phenomenon persists in reports.
1663 - Present
Worldwide
100+ witnesses
Can humans spontaneously burst into flames?
Famous Cases
Documented incidents:
- Mary Reeser (1951) - Florida
- Dr. John Bentley (1966) - Pennsylvania
- Henry Thomas (1980) - Wales
- Michael Faherty (2010) - Ireland
- Many others
The Pattern
Common elements:
- Victim largely consumed
- Extremities sometimes intact
- Surroundings not burned
- No external fire source
- Often elderly or immobile
Mary Reeser
The “Cinder Woman”:
- Found July 1951
- St. Petersburg, Florida
- Only foot remained
- Chair melted
- Room barely damaged
Scientific Explanations
Proposed causes:
- “Wick effect” theory
- Body fat as fuel
- Clothing ignition
- Alcohol consumption
- External source missed
The Skepticism
Why scientists doubt:
- Human body is 60% water
- Requires extreme heat
- No mechanism known
- Evidence often poor
- Alternative explanations exist
Irish Coroner Verdict
2011 ruling:
- Michael Faherty case
- Official SHC verdict
- First in modern times
- Controversial decision
- Rare acknowledgment