A teenager left severely injured in a brutal petrol attack was unrecognizable to some family members due to the extent of his burns. Jacob Thompson, 19, suffered third-degree burns to 32% of his body, including his face, torso, arms, back, and legs, following the attack in Coonabarabran, New South Wales, Australia, on October 13. The incident, believed to be part of a long-standing feud between two families in the small town, saw Jacob engulfed in flames after being doused with a liquid by a group of individuals. Passersby intervened to put out the fire before he was rushed to intensive care.
Describing the ordeal as deeply traumatic, Jacob’s family revealed that the entire incident had left them all in shock. Jacob, who faced life-threatening injuries, struggled to be recognized by his siblings due to the severity of his condition. Despite the challenges, his family highlighted his resilience and positive attitude in coping with the aftermath of the attack.
Following the attack, three individuals were arrested by the police, including a 45-year-old woman, a 19-year-old man, and a 17-year-old girl. The man was charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent and affray, while the woman faced charges of affray. The teenage girl was released pending further investigation.
To support Jacob’s recovery, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated to assist with his medical expenses and rehabilitation. The fundraising page detailed the extent of Jacob’s injuries and the long road to recovery that lay ahead for him. Despite initial critical condition, Jacob has shown signs of improvement, though he continues to face challenges with breathing issues and other medical complications.
The incident has left a lasting impact on Jacob and his loved ones, underscoring the need for ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and a safe environment for his recovery journey. The family expressed gratitude for the support received and emphasized the importance of unity in facing the challenges ahead.