A 25-year-old man is fighting for his life in hospital after being allegedly doused with petrol and set alight inside a unit in Warrawong, on the New South Wales South Coast.
Incident details
The attack occurred at a unit block on Todd Street, with emergency services called to the scene around 9pm on Monday, May 11. Fire and Rescue NSW Inspector Andrew Barber said the victim was inside the unit when an offender entered and poured petrol over him.
"Someone entered the building and doused him with petrol," Inspector Barber said. "He ran out of the building on fire and collapsed in the car park. He had severe burns to the face."
The man was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics and nearby residents before being airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital in a critical condition.
Police investigation
A NSW Police spokesman confirmed the alleged offender fled the scene. A crime scene has been established, and detectives have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Inspector Barber noted that there was no fire inside the unit itself, but the premises sustained smoke damage. "There was minimal damage to the unit, it just needed to be ventilated," he said.
Appeal for information
Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information can be provided anonymously.
The victim remains in hospital under medical care, with his condition described as critical.
