A young individual reportedly received a threatening message before being covered in petrol and ignited. Jacob Thompson, aged 19, is currently undergoing medical care in a hospital after sustaining burns on approximately 32% of his body from the alleged incident. The burns, including third-degree burns to his face, torso, arms, back, and legs, occurred on October 13.
According to authorities, moments before the attack, Aaron Valette, also 19, displayed a plastic bottle containing a transparent liquid to Jacob. He then purportedly uttered, “If you come any closer I’ll burn you.” Valette allegedly poured the liquid on Jacob before setting him on fire. Bystanders managed to put out the flames after the assault in Coonabarabran, New South Wales, Australia.
Following the incident, Jacob was taken to a medical facility for treatment. Police stated that the occurrence was linked to an “ongoing feud” between two local families.
Valette has been charged with causing severe bodily harm to an individual with intent and affray. Mavis Chatfield, 45, is also facing charges of affray, and both have been denied bail.
Speaking to a local media outlet, The Daily Telegraph, Jacob’s family expressed deep trauma following the attack. They mentioned the emotional toll the incident had on Jacob, his relatives, and witnesses, stressing the challenging period since the assault.
Jacob, previously on life support, has shown slight improvements but still faces breathing difficulties. Despite the hardships, his family noted his positivity amid the ordeal.
Receiving care at Concord Hospital, Jacob remains under the care of his family, who have relocated from their residence due to safety concerns.
A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to support Jacob and his family during this difficult time. The fundraiser highlights the severity of Jacob’s injuries, the emotional impact on his loved ones, and the long road to recovery ahead, including the need for a secure environment for ongoing treatment and well-being.