13-year-old firebombing victim fights for life in Melbourne hospital

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 10 Oct, 01:55 · Archive

A 13-year-old boy is fighting for his life in hospital after catching fire during an alleged firebombing in northwest Melbourne.

A 13-year-old boy is fighting for his life in hospital with severe burns sustained during an alleged firebombing in Taylors Hill, northwest Melbourne, earlier this week. He was part of a group of boys who allegedly set fire to two cars, but the plan went wrong when he caught fire himself. The youths reportedly covered themselves in petrol while dousing the vehicles.

The boy has undergone a 12-hour skin graft operation. Police have warned that despite this treatment, he may still die from his injuries. A court heard this week that after the incident, the youths attempted to flee in a stolen car, which crashed moments later. They then ran away, leaving the boy engulfed in flames.

Police have alleged the incidents may be linked to organised crime, with teenagers reportedly offered $3,000 to carry out the arson attacks. The boy's sister made an emotional appeal to the community, telling the ABC that falling in with the wrong crowd may have cost her brother his life. She urged others to reject such offers and walk away from violence.

How it is being reported

• ‘Protect your life’: Sister of 13yo Melbourne firebomb victim shares family’s heartacheThe sister of a 13-year-old boy left fighting for life following a botched firebombing has made an emotional plea to end the violence.The West Australian · 10 Oct, 01:30
• ‘Protect your life’: Sister of 13yo Melbourne firebomb victim shares family’s heartacheThe sister of a 13-year-old boy left fighting for life following a botched firebombing has made an emotional plea to end the violence.Perth Now · 10 Oct, 01:29

In this story: Melbourne · Taylors Hill

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