One year later: Police still looking for woman accused of setting lover, property on fire

One year later police are searching for Donna Gittens, 43, of Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara (EBD) who allegedly set her lover, 55-year-old James Moore, and his property on fire after he ended their brief relationship. The incident occurred on May 9, 2023, at Moore’s home in Grove, EBD. Moore survived but sustained severe burns to his upper body.
Moore, a former soldier, recounted the harrowing night when Gittens reportedly doused him with gasoline while he slept and set him ablaze. He managed to escape by rolling against a wall to extinguish the flames engulfing his body. However, Gittens, undeterred, attempted to set him on fire a second time. Moore narrowly escaped the second attack, fleeing from his home after kicking open the door and scaling a fence.
The attack didn’t stop there. Gittens also reportedly set fire to Moore’s shop, which was attached to his home. Luckily, a passing police patrol spotted Moore and rescued him, rushing him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he was treated for his injuries. Gittens was arrested the same day but was released on $20,000 bail 72 hours later. Since then, she has evaded authorities and remains at large.
Moore told police that he believed the motive behind the attack stemmed from his decision to end their relationship after only a few months. He had entrusted Gittens with managing his snackette, grocery shop, and bar, but she failed to manage it properly, leading to losses. After discussing the issue with her and suggesting that she leave the business, Moore said tensions rose. On the night of the attack, she allegedly demanded sex from him, and when he declined, the situation escalated.
Now, one year later, the police are looking for the woman. Anyone with information about Donna Gittens’ whereabouts is urged to contact the police at 227-1149, 225-8196, 227-1611, 268-2328, or the nearest police station. (G9)