NSW Police launch investigation after man dies by self immolation

A man has died in hospital about two weeks after he suffered serious burns during an incident on a boat in Sydney’s north.

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.

NSW Police were called to perform a welfare check in Pittwater on October 9. Picture: NewsWire/ Gaye Gerard

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.

The 61-year-old man later died in the Royal North Shore Hospital. Picture:NewsWire/ Monique Harmer

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.