Man dies by self immolation in Sydney

A man who allegedly poured the contents of a jerry can on himself has died in hospital after suffering significant burns while on a boat, as police launch an investigation into the incident.

Emergency services were called to the boat following reports of a concern for welfare in Pittwater, near Scotland Island, in Sydney’s north about 2.55pm on October 9.

Upon arrival, Sydney Water Police spoke with a 61-year-old man about the alleged activation of an EPIRB emergency device.

During this conversation, the man allegedly picked up a jerry can and poured the contents of the can over himself while smoking a cigarette, which ignited a fire.

Police officers were able to put out the fire and immediately provided first aid to the man.

The man was taken in a critical but stable condition to the Royal North Shore Hospital for further treatment.

NSW Police confirmed the man died in hospital from his injuries following the self immolation incident about 4am on Saturday.

A report will now be prepared for the Coroner.

A critical incident team will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

An independent review of the investigation will also occur.

The investigation is also subject to an independent review.

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