Winnipeg man torched in attack dies

A Winnipeg father who was attacked and set on fire has died after spending the last 16 days in hospital in critical condition.

Gerald Dumas, 47, died Monday, a spokesperson for his family said.

Dumas was doused with a flammable liquid in a back alley in the 500 block of Selkirk Avenue on the night of Sept. 10. Police say hewas attacked during a robbery attempt as he walked alone in the lane.

The liquid used to burn him came from a container inDumas's pocket.

When officers called to the scene found him, his clothes and skin were in flames. They used a fire extinguisher from their cruiser car to quench the flames.

Dumassuffered third-degree burns across his back, stomach and head. A relative told CBC News thatfacial features had been burned off.

Dumas's family described the father of two as a passive and gentle person.

A 19-year-old suspectin custody has beencharged with aggravated assault, robbery with violence and breach of probation. Police could not be immediately reached for comment on whether the chargeswillbe upgraded.