Former NYC Official Sues Bath & Body Works After Candle Explosion Causes Severe Burns

Renita Francois, a former New York City official, filed a federal lawsuit against Bath & Body Works and the candle manufacturer Premier Candle Corp. after a three-wick "Sweater Weather" candle exploded in her face, causing severe second-degree burns, melted eyelashes, singed eyebrows, and permanent scarring. The incident occurred in January 2023 when Francois leaned in to smell the candle, which allegedly was made with substandard materials and highly flammable chemical additives, creating a known risk of explosion. The lawsuit claims the companies were aware of such dangers since a 2016 recall involving similar candle explosions and injuries. The explosion has deeply affected Francois both physically and emotionally, fracturing her confidence and altering her public life, as she now hesitates to attend public events and faces intrusive questions from others. She is seeking damages not only for her physical and emotional trauma but also to hold the companies accountable for what she describes as a preventable tragedy. The candle was reportedly manufactured in Canada and sold for around $17 to $27, and the burned candle was left charred and deformed after the explosion.