A man has appeared in court after being charged with using an explosive device to cause grievous bodily harm, following an alleged attack that left a 25-year-old man with life-threatening burns at a Warrawong unit complex.
Alleged incident details
The victim suffered burns to 50 per cent of his body during the incident at his Todd Street home on Monday night. Police allege that a man forced his way into the unit before fleeing the scene.
An investigation was launched, and on Tuesday afternoon, officers arrested Beau James Lewis at a residence on Scarborough Circuit in Albion Park. The 32-year-old faced the Bail Division Court on Wednesday afternoon.
Court proceedings
Lewis was charged with using an explosive with intent to maim or cause grievous bodily harm. He did not apply for bail, and Judge Marguerite Vassall formally refused bail.
Legal Aid lawyer Gabrielle Agius requested that Lewis undergo a mental health review, noting he had previously been diagnosed with schizophrenia and wished to speak with a Justice Health clinician. Ms Agius also asked for a physical examination regarding injuries to his ear, leg, and back.
Lewis is scheduled to next appear at Wollongong Local Court on July 15.
Victim's condition
The alleged victim was airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital in a critical condition on Monday night. By Tuesday afternoon, his condition had been updated to serious but stable.
