A teen critically injured in a reported “explosion” near a rail line has been identified as regional Queenslander Jai Hita.
Emergency services found Hita on Thomas St in Dysart, about three-hours southwest of Mackay, at 5.20pm last Wednesday.
Hita was shocked by a power line near the train line which runs parallel to the unsealed road he was found on, 7NEWS.com.au understands.
Sign up to The Nightly’s newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.
He was rushed to Dysart Hospital fighting for life with significant burns, before being taken to Mackay Hospital by helicopter.
Loved ones have since revealed the burns cover 65 per cent of Hita’s body.
“Due to the severity of his injuries, his left leg has now been amputated,” GoFundMe organiser Amber Hansell said in a fundraiser to support Hita’s recovery journey.
“He has also suffered extensive burns across his body, and the damage to his right arm is severe.
“He will require significant removal of damaged muscle and tissue, and at this stage, the extent of what this will mean for the future of his right arm remains unknown.”
Jai Hita was found severely burned beneath power lines near a rail line along Thomas St in Dysart. Credit: Google MapsA fundraiser collecting donations to support Hita’s recovery has amassed $36,500. Credit: GoFundMe
Costs are expected to mount alongside Hita’ treatment, as family will need to take time off of work, travel to the hospital, and book accommodation nearby to remain by the teen’s side.
“At this stage, nobody knows exactly what the weeks and months ahead will look like,” Hansell said.
“What we do know is that Jai and his family are going to need an enormous amount of love and support around them.”
The family thanked the donors who have so far contributed $36,500 to the fundraiser to support Hita.
“No donation is too small. If you aren’t in a position to donate, sharing this page would mean just as much to us,” Hansell said.
“Thank you to everyone who has already reached out, offered help, sent messages and kept Jai and his family in their thoughts. The support surrounding them means more than we can put into words.
“All funds raised will go directly towards supporting Jai and his family throughout his treatment and recovery.”
