This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
A man is in "very critical condition" after setting himself on fire in a Van Nuys Starbucks this morning.The man described as homeless was attempting to commit suicide by setting himself on fire, LAPD Officer Liliana Preciado told LAist. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the call around 8:18 a.m. at a Starbucks in the 15300 block of W Sherman Way.
Police told NBC Los Angeles that the man doused himself in some type of flammable liquid and then proceeded to set himself on fire in the bathroom. He is suffering from extensive burns.
If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide: do not leave the person alone, remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt, and call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional.
