Council Bluffs police are investigating the attempted murder of a homeless man. 

The Council Bluffs Fire Department responded to a reported fire on the city’s southwest side at around 2:45 p.m. on Monday. When police arrived on the scene, they discovered a white male who had severe burns over his clothing and body. The man was taken to an Omaha hospital in critical condition. He was later transferred to another hospital with a specialized burn unit.

The victim told officers he was sleeping when he was awakened by the fire. The man was able to tell investigators he saw three white males leaving the area as he tried to put out the fire. Authorities however, have not determined if the three men are suspects or witnesses to the incident. Anyone with information was asked to call Council Bluffs Police at 712-328-4728.

(Reporting by Ric Hanson, KJAN, Atlantic)