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In a shocking incident, a father from California is in critical condition after inexplicably catching fire close to a shopping center in Victorville.
The incident occurred on March 30, when deputies were called to the scene at approximately 7:35 p.m. following reports of a man engulfed in flames along Amargosa Road, near the intersections of Bear Valley and Dunia roads.
Upon arriving, authorities discovered a 35-year-old man suffering from severe burns. He was promptly airlifted to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center for urgent medical treatment, as reported by VVNG.
Footage captured at the location depicted flames erupting near an electrical box in a densely vegetated area, with bystanders quickly stepping in to assist, including one person who used a fire extinguisher to douse the flames.
A witness described the harrowing scene to the media, noting that the man’s skin appeared to be “falling off” while he cried out in pain.
Investigators found items consistent with combustible materials, and authorities believe the fire may have been accidental, the Victorsville Police Department said.
Bystanders initially believed the man to be homeless, describing the scene as a possible encampment, VVNG reported.
A request by The Post for more information from the Victorville Police Department was no returned,
Family members later identified the victim as Joel, a father of three who is now in extremely critical condition.
In a GoFundMe organized by relatives, Joel reportedly suffered third-degree burns across about 90% of his body and is in a burn unit undergoing life-saving treatment.
The family said he’s already undergone multiple procedures and faces a long recovery, including surgeries, intensive care and a high risk of infection.
“The road ahead is overwhelming,” the fundraiser states.
“Joel is deeply loved. He is not just a patient — he is a father, a brother, and someone who matters deeply to all of us.”
The case remains under investigation.