Man accused of setting Houston attorney, son on fire speaks in jailhouse interview

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- For the first time since he was charged with murder, 32-year-old Curtis Holliman is speaking exclusively to Eyewitness News.

Holliman is accused of setting former prosecutor and Houston attorney Kirby Taylor and his son, Dexter, on fire January 18.

In a jailhouse interview, Holliman didn't admit to the crime but told abc13's Chauncy Glover that he has been dealing with different issues.

"I've been dealing with terrorism and bullying. I was fed up. It had been going on," Holliman said.

He says he met 67-year-old Kirby Taylor at church through another attorney. Holliman was fighting a drug charge and didn't have the money to hire a lawyer, so he asked Kirby Taylor for help. While seeking help, Kirby Taylor also provided Holliman a place to stay.

RELATED: Houston attorney, son burned in 'suspicious' house fire

But during Monday's jailhouse interview, he spelled out allegations of mistreatment.

"I don't know why I stayed. I was in school. I needed a place to stay and legal help. I felt trapped," Holliman said.

Jenyce Bond, who is Kirby Taylor's caretaker, called the allegations "shenanigans."

"He's just trying to get out of his charges," she added.

Kirby Taylor is still in the hospital. His son, Dexter, died at the hospital following the fire.