A young individual sustained serious injuries following an incident where he was set on fire, reportedly as a result of an ongoing dispute between two families in a small town. Jacob Thompson, aged 19, suffered burns covering 32% of his body, including severe third-degree burns to various parts of his body, after the incident on Cowper Street in Coonabarabran, Australia, on October 13.
According to reports, a group of individuals approached Jacob, doused him with a liquid, and set him on fire, leading to him being taken to intensive care after bystanders intervened to put out the flames. Authorities have indicated that the incident was linked to a feud between local families in the rural Australian community.
In the aftermath, it was revealed that Jacob was threatened by Aaron Valette, 19, who allegedly warned him of being burned while holding a container with an unidentified liquid. Valette reportedly proceeded to pour the liquid on Jacob, setting him on fire before witnesses intervened. Jacob’s family, concerned for their safety, relocated from Coonabarabran to be with him at Concord Hospital in Sydney, where he was airlifted for treatment.
Jacob sustained severe injuries, requiring him to be placed in an induced coma on life support due to the extent of his burns and airway damage. His family expressed the emotional toll of the incident, highlighting the long road ahead for Jacob’s recovery, medical treatment, and the family’s overall well-being.
Despite the challenges, Jacob’s family noted slight improvements in his condition, although he continues to face breathing difficulties, eye problems, and a dislocated shoulder that necessitate ongoing care and monitoring. They emphasized his positive attitude and resilience in coping with the ordeal.
Following the incident, police arrested Aaron Valette, Mavis Chatfield, 45, and a 17-year-old girl at a nearby location. Valette was charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent and affray, while Chatfield faced an affray charge. Both individuals were denied bail, while the teenage girl was released pending further investigation.