UPDATE: A devastating house fire in Central Queensland has claimed the lives of four individuals, including two infants, leaving their father, Jake Symons, grappling with unbearable grief and undergoing cancer treatment. Just hours after the tragedy unfolded on October 19, 2023, Symons received the heart-wrenching news that his children, Maddison, aged 20 months, and Desmond, aged 5 months, perished in the blaze that engulfed their family home in Emerald.
Emergency services responded rapidly to the fire, which erupted before 7 a.m., but unfortunately, they could not save the victims. Family friend Mathew Chilly, 36, and an unidentified teenager also lost their lives in this tragic incident. Neighbors attempted to extinguish the flames using garden hoses, but their efforts were in vain.
In a heartbreaking post on social media, Symons expressed his profound sorrow, writing, “Dad’s best little mate… I had so many things I wanted to show you and watch you grow.” He described Maddison as his “first love” and lamented, “I’m sorry I wasn’t there, won’t be long.” The emotional weight of his words resonates deeply with the community reeling from this loss.
Family members have rallied around Symons, who is currently residing with relatives as they navigate through this catastrophic event. His aunt, Sally Woulfe, stated, “Our family is shattered – Jake lived for his kids. He is in a world of pain.” The family has faced significant hardships, as Symons lost his job following his cancer diagnosis and they recently moved into social housing.
In response to the family’s dire situation, a GoFundMe campaign was launched, raising over $7,000 by Friday afternoon. Supporters from across the country are coming together to help Symons rebuild his shattered life. “Maddison was full of life and laughter, always smiling,” Woulfe added, reflecting on the bright spirits of the lost children.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with a faulty e-scooter identified as a possible source. Senior Sergeant Peter McFarlane confirmed the trauma experienced by emergency responders, stating, “You can imagine, a fire fully engulfed… learning four lives inside, lost inside, it’s been quite traumatic on all emergency services.”
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli expressed his condolences, emphasizing the tragic impact on the local community. “It’s the kind of event that rocks all communities, particularly smaller ones,” he remarked, highlighting the interconnectedness of local residents and emergency personnel.
This tragic incident echoes another heartbreaking event just weeks earlier, where an alleged arson attack claimed the lives of a mother and two young boys in Gladstone. As investigations continue, support for the grieving families remains crucial.
As Australia mourns this unspeakable loss, mental health resources are available for those affected. Lifeline can be reached at 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636 for those in need of support during this difficult time.
The community’s outpouring of support for the Symons family illustrates the resilience and compassion that often emerges in the face of tragedy. Further updates on the investigation and community efforts will follow as this story develops.
