A teenager suffered severe injuries from being set on fire, allegedly as a result of an ongoing dispute between two families in a small town. Jacob Thompson, 19, sustained burns covering 32% of his body, including third-degree burns to his face, torso, arms, back, and legs when he was ignited on Cowper Street in Coonabarabran, Australia, on October 13.
Reportedly, a group of individuals approached Jacob and doused him with a liquid before setting him ablaze, prompting bystanders to intervene and extinguish the flames, leading to his transfer to intensive care. Authorities believe the incident was linked to a feud between local families in the rural Australian community.
Following the occurrence, New South Wales Police stated that Jacob’s immolation was a consequence of a feud between the families, alleging that Aaron Valette, 19, threatened Jacob with burning while holding a plastic bottle containing an unidentified substance. Valette reportedly warned Jacob before igniting him, causing witnesses to put out the fire. Consequently, Jacob’s family relocated out of safety concerns, standing by him at Concord Hospital in Sydney, where he was airlifted post-incident.
Jacob’s family disclosed the severe nature of his injuries as he remains in intensive care, emphasizing the long and painful medical journey ahead for his treatment and recovery. Although initially on life support, Jacob has shown slight improvements, yet he continues to struggle with breathing issues and eye damage, necessitating ongoing care and monitoring, along with a dislocated shoulder.
Despite the substantial injuries, Jacob’s family mentioned his positive attitude in coping with the situation. Authorities arrested Valette, Mavis Chatfield, 45, and a 17-year-old girl at a nearby location after the incident. Valette faces charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and affray, while Chatfield is charged with affray, both denied bail. The teenage girl was released pending further investigation.
