A young individual sustained severe injuries after being intentionally set on fire, reportedly as a result of an ongoing dispute between two families in a small town. Jacob Thompson, 19, suffered burns covering 32% of his body, including third-degree burns to his face, torso, arms, back, and legs when the incident occurred on Cowper Street in Coonabarabran, Australia, on October 13.
According to reports, a group of individuals approached Jacob and doused him with a liquid before igniting him, leading to him being swiftly taken to intensive care by bystanders who intervened to put out the flames. Authorities indicate that the act of setting Jacob on fire was linked to a feud between local families in the rural Australian community.
Police statements suggest that Aaron Valette, 19, allegedly threatened Jacob with burning while holding a plastic bottle containing an unidentified substance. Valette reportedly warned Jacob, “if you come any closer I’ll burn you,” before proceeding to set him on fire. This horrifying incident has prompted Jacob’s family to leave Coonabarabran due to safety concerns, staying by his side at Concord Hospital in Sydney, where he was airlifted for medical care post-incident.
Jacob’s relatives have shared details about the extent of his injuries as he remains under intensive care following the attack. They expressed the traumatic impact on the entire family, mentioning the need for long-term medical treatment, rehabilitation, and potentially relocating to ensure a safe environment for Jacob’s recovery and well-being.
Despite the serious injuries sustained, Jacob’s family reported some signs of improvement in his condition, although he continues to face challenges with breathing and eye issues requiring ongoing monitoring and treatment, alongside a dislocated shoulder. Despite the ordeal, Jacob is said to be staying positive and coming to terms with the situation, showing resilience in the face of adversity.
In response to the incident, authorities arrested Valette, along with Mavis Chatfield, 45, and a 17-year-old female at a nearby location. Valette faces charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and affray, while Chatfield was charged with affray, both being denied bail. The teenage girl was released from police custody pending further investigation.
