A teenager sustained severe injuries after being set on fire in what appears to be a targeted attack linked to an ongoing dispute between two families in a small town.
Jacob Thompson, aged 19, suffered extensive burns covering 32% of his body, including third-degree burns on various body parts, after the incident on Cowper Street in Coonabarabran, New South Wales, Australia, on October 13.
Reportedly, a group of individuals approached Jacob, doused him with a flammable substance, and then set him alight. Prompt intervention from bystanders helped extinguish the flames, and Jacob was swiftly taken to intensive care for treatment.
Authorities investigating the incident suggest that the shocking attack was a result of an ongoing feud between the two families residing in the rural Australian town.
The New South Wales Police have disclosed that the attack on Jacob was likely fueled by a “feud” between local families. According to a statement in the Australian Daily Telegraph, Aaron Valette, 19, allegedly threatened Jacob with burning before proceeding to set him on fire using a plastic bottle containing an unidentified liquid.
After the harrowing incident, Jacob’s family relocated from Coonabarabran due to safety concerns and have been providing support at Concord Hospital in Sydney, where Jacob was airlifted for specialized medical care.
As Jacob remains in intensive care, his family has shared the extensive impact of his injuries, highlighting the need for prolonged medical treatment, rehabilitation, and a secure environment for his recovery and well-being.
Although initially on life support, Jacob has shown some signs of improvement. However, he continues to face challenges such as breathing difficulties, eye injuries, and a dislocated shoulder, necessitating ongoing medical attention and monitoring.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Jacob’s family reports his positive outlook as he copes with the aftermath of the incident. They mentioned his emotional struggle and resilience in dealing with the situation over the past few weeks.
Following the attack, authorities arrested Valette, along with Mavis Chatfield, 45, and a 17-year-old girl at a nearby location. Valette faces charges of causing serious
