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Francine Hughes, acquitted in 'Burning Bed' case 40 years ago, dies

Francine Hughes, the Dansville woman who killed her abusive ex-husband 40 years ago in what came to be known as the “Burning Bed” case, has passed away.

The Lansing State Journal reports that Hughes had taken the name of her second husband. Francine Wilson died on March 22nd in Leighton, Alabama at the age of 69.

A jury found her not guilty by reason of temporary insanity.

WKAR interviewed her defense attorney, Arjen Graydanus, on March 9th. That was the 40th anniversary of the death of Mickey Hughes.

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Scott Pohl is a general assignment news reporter and produces news features and interviews. He is also an alternate local host on NPR's "Morning Edition."