A young person reportedly received a threatening message before being attacked with petrol and set on fire. Jacob Thompson, aged 19, is currently undergoing medical treatment in a hospital due to severe burns covering approximately 32% of his body sustained during the incident on October 13. The burns, classified as third-degree, are located on his face, torso, arms, back, and legs.
Prior to the assault, the police reported that Aaron Valette, also 19 years old, displayed a plastic bottle containing a clear liquid and warned Jacob by stating, “If you come any closer I’ll burn you.” Following this, Valette allegedly poured the liquid over Jacob before igniting it. Prompt action from onlookers helped extinguish the flames after the attack took place in Coonabarabran, New South Wales, Australia.
Jacob was subsequently taken to a medical facility for urgent care. Authorities indicated that the incident stemmed from an ongoing dispute between two local families. Valette has been formally accused of causing severe harm to another individual with intent and of engaging in disorderly conduct. Another individual, Mavis Chatfield, aged 45, has also been charged with disorderly conduct. Both suspects were denied bail.
In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, Jacob’s family expressed deep distress over the assault, noting that witnessing the event had profoundly affected them. They described the past weeks as challenging, with Jacob experiencing significant pain and requiring medication for relief.
Initially placed on life support, Jacob has shown slight improvement but continues to struggle with breathing issues. Despite the hardships endured in the past weeks, Jacob’s family highlighted his resilience and positive attitude towards recovery. Jacob is currently receiving care at Concord Hospital, with his family providing continuous support. Due to safety concerns, they have relocated from their previous residence.
To aid Jacob and his family, a GoFundMe campaign has been established. The fundraiser emphasizes the severity of Jacob’s injuries, the emotional toll on his loved ones, and the necessity for ongoing medical treatment and potential relocation to ensure their well-being.
