One individual has passed away, while two others are in critical condition after a sudden house fire overnight, suspected to have been intentionally started, according to initial responders.
Firefighters swiftly responded to a report of a residential fire in Hope Island on Australia’s sunny Gold Coast. Upon arrival at a residence on Sickle Avenue just after 11:30 pm local time on Tuesday, emergency crews encountered a heavily engulfed home.
The house sustained significant damage due to the blaze, with one side of the structure collapsing and flames and smoke emerging from the roof. Despite the rapid spread of the fire initially, firefighters managed to bring it under control within an hour.
A 38-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics, while two other men aged 44 and 84 were urgently transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in critical conditions, suffering from burns to various parts of their bodies. Additionally, a 59-year-old woman was taken to the Gold Coast University Hospital with stable conditions, having sustained injuries to her back, hip, and leg. Another 38-year-old man escaped from the residence unharmed.
Authorities suspect the house was deliberately set on fire, with the deceased man believed to be the perpetrator. A crime scene has been established, and investigations by police and fire services are ongoing.
Witnesses reported seeing smoke and a significant police presence near the property in the early hours of the morning, with the street cordoned off. Neighbors described the victims as visibly shaken and disoriented after fleeing the burning home. Queensland Police are urging anyone with information or relevant footage to come forward to assist in the investigation.