Two young children tragically lost their lives in a destructive house fire recently. Myla Summer-Lea Hughes, aged 10, and River William Higgins, 3, perished when a fire broke out in their family residence around 2 a.m. on Monday, April 27. Despite the efforts of over 60 firefighters who responded to the blaze at the home in Bowen Mountain, Australia, the lives of Myla and River could not be saved. Fortunately, their father, David Higgins, and three other siblings managed to escape the flames and were hospitalized for smoke inhalation and minor injuries but have since been discharged.
On the morning they were set to embark on a fresh start by moving to Queensland, tragedy struck the family as the fire engulfed their home. The children’s mother, Skye Hughes, who had already traveled ahead with one of their siblings, was not present during the incident.
The intense blaze caused significant damage to the house, including destroying the roof and causing structural issues, which required extensive efforts from firefighters to control.
In the wake of the heartbreaking loss of Myla and River, a GoFundMe page has been established to support the family, raising nearly £30,000 in just three days. The funds will assist with funeral expenses, memorials, and emergency accommodations as the family copes with the unimaginable loss. Skye Hughes and David Higgins expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from their community and beyond, acknowledging that their lives have been forever altered by the tragedy.
The parents thanked the first responders, hospital staff, friends, and the broader community for their unwavering support during this challenging time. While investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire, authorities have indicated that foul play is not suspected.
For those willing to contribute, donations to the GoFundMe fundraiser for the family can be made here.