Campbell River RCMP believe a 20-year-old man found with serious burns on his back was deliberately set on fire as he slept on an island under a highway bridge early Tuesday.
Police were called about 7:30 a.m. after the man was found in the nearby parking lot of the Brick furniture store by fishermen. His injuries are described as non-life threatening.
“Setting someone on fire is truly an egregious offence,” Const. Maury Tyre said. “Nobody, no matter what their situation is in life, deserves to be treated in such a horrendous manner.
“We truly wish this young man a speedy recovery.”
Police said the man was able to remove his burning clothes and make his way to the parking lot to seek help. It was later discovered that some of his possessions were missing from the area.
The area where he was sleeping, beneath an Island Highway bridge crossing Campbell River, is commonly used for overnight shelter.
Police ask anyone with information to call Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221.
