Fundraiser started after workplace accident leaves Fort St. John man with burns on nearly 80% of his body

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Money is being raised for a Fort St. John man after he suffered burns to around 80 per cent of his body during a workplace accident on Thursday.

Due to his condition, Aric Stewart was airlifted to a Vancouver hospital and was eventually put into a medically induced coma.

His family has been providing updates about Stewart’s condition on social media, noting that he was hurt during an explosion at work.

The only report of an explosion in Fort St. John on Thursday occurred in an industrial area off East Bypass Road and 78th Street.

The Fort St. John Fire Department told Energeticcity.ca last week that first responders arrived at the scene to what “appeared to be a brief ignition of a hazardous substance.” Two people were reportedly injured in the incident.

Officials haven’t confirmed if an explosion actually took place or not.

The RCMP does not believe the incident is criminal, and WorkSafe BC is now investigating.

Stewart’s wife, Ayla, along with his parents and in-laws, are in Vancouver with him.

Stewart’s great uncle Chris started fundraising for him, and approximately $12,435 has been donated as of Tuesday.

Chris says the funds raised will replace Stewart’s lost income and cover any medical costs incurred during his long recovery.

Every donation made to the GoFundMe Chris created will be given to Stewart’s wife, Ayla. 

E-transfers can also be sent to aylarayosborne@gmail.com.