Wanted: Niagara County Man Who Set Woman On Fire

A man who set a woman on fire in Niagara County is wanted. The man was supposed to attend a court hearing regarding the case, but did not show up. A bench warrant has been issued for the suspect.

What Is A Bench Warrant?

You may have heard the term 'bench warrant' before, but not know exactly what it means. A judge typically issues a bench warrant, whereas police generally issue arrest warrants. Per Nolo,

"Judges issue bench warrants when a defendant or other party violates court rules. Most often, it's when a criminal defendant fails to show up in court. The court might also issue a bench warrant after finding someone in contempt for failing to pay child support or not showing up for jury duty. Subpoenaed witnesses who fail to show up and testify can also be subject to a bench warrant."

KEEP READING: 38 People Were Arrested In Niagara County This Week

Barinder Singh, pictured above, is wanted in connection with the burning of 48-year-old Judith Lynn Lafler. The victim died in January 2025 after freezing to death in an abandoned dwelling. On August 4, 2024, Singh doused Lafler with a flammable liquid and ignited her outside of his food truck located on Niagara and Seventh Streets. Lafler suffered third-degree burns and was listed in critical condition. She suffered severe burns to her head, arms, and body.

She identified Singh as her attacker. There was also a cell phone video that showed her lying on the ground while Singh said, “I’ll (expletive) kill you” and “Don’t (expletive) steal from me,” per Niagara Action.

Niagara County Judge John Ottaviano issued a bench warrant after Singh did not show up in court on Friday, August 15, 2025.

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