Teenager fighting for life after car firebombing backfires
A teenager is fighting for life after accidentally setting himself and then a getaway car on fire during a botched firebombing
The boy was left for dead by his mates after they crashed into a bush while trying to flee in Melbourne.
Emergency services were called to Taylors Hill about 5.12am, where two cars were engulfed in flames. 9News
Two cars explode into a fireball and a teenager was engulfed in flames at Taylors Hill.
Two arsonists poured petrol onto the cars just after 5am.
They ignited it and that’s when their plan backfired.
The boy ran around Woolwich Way frantically trying to put out the flames
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Still on fire, the boy jumped into a waiting getaway car.
The stolen SUV crashed into bushes seconds later and two people ran off, leaving their injured friend for dead.
One witness said paramedics worked on a patient on the grass.
A couple has been renting the targeted property and their barking dogs alerted them to the fire
The male resident desperately tried to battle the blaze before firefighters arrived
A teenage boy with severe burns to his upper and lower body was found nearby and taken to hospital. 9News
A local said they were in tears over what happened.
“The flames were just so high and popping, he’s with a hose trying to get them out,” they said.
“You know what? You want to do that to people, and try and get away with it? That’s what happens when you play with fire. You get burned.”
Neighbours were shocked to see their street become a crime scene as detectives spent the day combing the three damaged cars and bagging evidence.
Detective Inspector Chris Murray said the incident showed the dangers facing teenagers recruited to carry out serious crimes.
“Once again, we see the devastating consequences of arson and the dangers facing young people who become involved in organised crime.
They’re pleading with young people to think about the consequences, before it’s too late.
The SUV is believed to have been stolen from Hoppers Crossing yesterday.
Police are still looking for other two offenders.
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