Man accused of setting girlfriend ablaze at gas station pleads not guilty to aggravated arson

COLUMBUS, Ohio – A man accused of throwing gasoline on his girlfriend and setting her on fire behind an Ohio gas station has pleaded not guilty to charges including aggravated arson.

Bond for Gahanna resident Michael Slager was set Monday at $1 million Monday. He's also charged with felonious assault and having criminal tools in connection with the Aug. 2 attack in a Columbus suburb.

A defense attorney told the judge Monday that it was a "horrible accident." The 31-year-old victim is hospitalized with critical injuries.

Prosecutors say Slager intentionally set the woman on fire during an argument.