A California father is fighting for his life after he mysteriously burst into flames near a shopping center in Victorville.
On March 30, deputies responded to reports of a man on fire along Amargosa Road near Bear Valley and Dunia roads around 7:35 p.m.
There they found a 35-year-old man with severe burns who was airlifted to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, according to VVNG.
Video from the scene showed flames near an electrical box in a bushy area as bystanders rushed in, some using a fire extinguisher to help.
A witness told the outlet that the man’s skin looked like it was “falling off” as he screamed.
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 not 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.
