A 32-year-old Bolwarra Heights man is fighting for his life at Sydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital after he was doused with a flammable liquid and set alight on Saturday.
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He suffered second-degree burns to 80 per cent of his body including his face, neck, chest and hands after a woman broke into his Amber Grove home in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Fifteen per cent of his face and neck are burnt, with the injury predominantly on his left side, paramedics said.
The man and his female companion were alerted to the break-in when they heard a noise in the house about 3am.
The man went to investigate.
His companion waited and heard more noises.
When she saw flames she ran to his rescue and found him and the carpet engulfed in fire.
She quickly extinguished the fire and phoned emergency services.
The female intruder escaped on foot and it is unclear if she used a match to light the fire.
Paramedics treated the man at the scene before air lifting him to Sydney’s Royal North Shore Hospital in a serious condition.
Two Fire and Rescue NSW trucks responded.
The man was still in a serious condition when the Mercury went to print last night.
Central Hunter acting Inspector Joanne Schultz said the man continued to undergo treatment.
“He is still receiving treatment and is in a serious condition,” she said.
Detectives established a crime scene and collected evidence which is being examined by specialist forensic officers.
Tests are still being conducted to determine what type of liquid was used.
Acting Inspector Schultz urged anyone who saw suspicious activity in Bolwarra Heights to contact police.
“Any member of the public who saw a vehicle around that time, or anyone nearby who heard something or saw something needs to contact Maitland police,” she said.
Anyone with information should phone Maitland police on 4934 0200 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.