The family of the woman who police say was intentionally set aflame inside her building's elevator spoke out publicly for the first time since she was murdered, saying she was killed after accusing the alleged murderer of stealing from her.

According to police, Deloris Gillespie, 73, was doused with gasoline by Jerome Isaac earlier this month and then set on fire inside the elevator.

The family says Gillespie helped out all over the community, including taking in her would-be attacker off the street.

The family is asking for donations to bury Gillespie, saying it is nowhere near the $10,000 needed to give her a proper funeral.

The funeral for Gillespie is scheduled for tomorrow at noon at the AME Zion Church.