A Sydney father is fighting for his life in a Colombian hospital with 25 stab wounds after he was allegedly kidnapped, tortured and thrown from a moving vehicle.
Frank Stephen Ramirez was found in the streets of Medellin at 4.40am on Sunday after attending Electric Daisy Carnival music festival.
According to Colombian publication Q’Hubo Medellin, Mr Ramirez was found near his residence with 25 stab wounds; eight to his right thigh, six to his left thigh, three to his right arm and eight to his abdomen.
Mr Ramirez was rushed to Incodol Clinic where doctors are still trying to treat his serious injuries.
A GoFundMe created by family members claims Mr Ramirez was kidnapped while leaving the festival and forced into an unknown vehicle before his attackers repeatedly stabbed him while forcing him to hand over money.
“When they were done, they kicked him out of a moving car and left him in the street to die like he was nothing,” the fundraiser said.
Witnesses reportedly echoed this claim, telling Colombian authorities they saw Mr Ramirez being thrown from a moving vehicle.
Colombian authorities are attempting to establish what occurred in the early hours of Sunday by examining public surveillance footage and private security cameras in surrounding streets to identify the vehicle and events surrounding the attack.
Investigators are considering the possibility that the attack was an intended robbery which escalated into violence, according to Q’Hubo Medellín.
Mr Ramirez’s family in Sydney have launched their fundraising appeal to cover his medical expenses, fly his wife to Colombia and provide financial support during his recovery.
“Frank is alone, terrified, and in critical condition,” organisers said.
“His wife’s presence is not just a comfort – it is essential for his will to fight and for his recovery.”
The fundraiser described Mr Ramirez as a devoted husband and loving father who has worked hard to build a life for his family in Australia.
“Frank Stephen Ramirez is a man with a heart of gold,” it read.
“He is a devoted father to his son, a loving and dedicated husband to his wife, and a cherished friend to all who know him.”
Mr Ramirez’s family said his visit to Colombia was supposed to be “a trip of a lifetime” to attend the major international music festival.
“It was supposed to be a time of joy, music, and celebration. Instead, it became a horrific nightmare that has shattered our world,” the family said.
“Frank did not deserve this.
“He went to Colombia with nothing but positive energy to enjoy an event he loved.”
No arrests have been made regarding Mr Ramirez’s alleged attack.