Vaduthala, Ernakulam: In a shocking incident, a couple was attacked and set on fire by a neighbour in Vaduthala near Lourdes Hospital on Friday.

Christopher and his wife, Mary, were returning from a church festival when the assailant, William, stopped their scooter, poured oil on them, and set them on fire.

Christopher suffered burns over more than 50% of his body and is in critical condition. Both victims have been admitted to Lourdes Hospital for treatment.

When the police, after learning about the attack, went to William’s house to question him, they found him dead by hanging. Neighbors told the police that there had been previous disputes between them.