GoFundMe Account Set Up for Kidnapped 3-yr-old Burned in Fiery Pick Up Crash

WLHR News has learned that the 3-year-old who was kidnapped by his father last Wednesday is listed in critical but stable condition at the Augusta Burn Center.

The little boy, named Bennett Dornellas, according to the GoFundMe page, has undergone a third surgery and is improving beyond expectations. Sources tell WLHR News in spite of the serious burns, he suffered no internal injuries.

However, the boy has a long road to recovery ahead.

The Anderson County Sheriff’s office said on their Facebook page that Bennett had burns over 90% of his body.

Anderson County Sheriff Chad McBride said the boy’s father, 31-year-old Joshua Dornellas of Belton, SC has a history of violence.

He said Dornellas was arrested in Belton, SC on April 21 for leaving five children, all under the age of 11, alone at home. One of those children, a toddler, was later found wandering in the street.

Just a few days later, on April 28th, police charged him with Domestic Violence 2nd Degree after he assaulted the child’s mother, prompting her to take an order of protection against Dornellas.

Dornellas fled with his 3-year-old son into Georgia last Wednesday and threatened to harm the boy.

With multiple law enforcement agencies in pursuit, he sped down I-85 SB and near mm165, set the inside of his truck on fire then jumped out of the driver’s side window, leaving the boy inside the burning pickup.

The pickup rolled up an embankment and burst into flames.

Multiple law enforcement officers from two states were able to get the child out and he was airlifted to the Augusta burn center.

Dornellas was taken into custody by Franklin County Sheriff’s deputies and is still being treated at a Georgia hospital for injuries.

Once released he will be taken to the Franklin County jail where he faces multiple charges in Georgia.

“As an agency, our hearts are with the child’s mother as she faces this unimaginable situation,” Sheriff McBride said.

And they, as well as Troopers with the Georgia State Patrol Post 52, Franklin County Sheriff’s office, and other law enforcement agencies ask for continued prayers for little Bennett as he continues to fight for his life.

On the GoFundMe page, the family issued the following statement:

“We are blown away by the financial support, thoughts, and prayers we’ve received during this tumultuous time for our family. This tragedy has been an opportune time for us to lean on God and our community. God continues to provide, and you, our community, have a generosity that knows no bounds.

Our family wants to take this moment to recognize the officers, paramedics, and first responders involved in saving Bennett’s life. Specifically, to the officers who risked their lives to pull Bennett from the burning vehicle—you personify the greatness of what the human spirit is capable of. We will never be able to repay your bravery.

We look forward to keeping you updated on Bennett’s long road to recovery as he is currently stable and beginning his journey.”

You can make a donation by going to: Urgent request for a tragic and violent incident