While preparing dinner with his dad, a small youngster was killed in an explosion that sent flames racing across a suburban backyard.
The fire that started at the home on Belle Vue Avenue in Ringwood, Melbourne, at around 6 o’clock on Saturday afternoon claimed the life of Roland Sakhawang, three.
Firefighters were called to the horrific sight, which had taken over a shed, but they didn’t discover the toddler’s body until after the fire had been put out.
Numerous family members, friends, and churchgoers frequent the home every Sunday because the family is a part of Melbourne’s Burmese community.
The two were cooking a supper as other family members were attending a church service in Croydon, according to church leader Jimmy Zathang.
They started the fire. The father entered the house to retrieve the meat; while using the restroom, he noticed a light flashing through the glass.
Roland was a “happy child, extremely energetic, and quite lovely,” according to him.
The youngster was remembered by his family as a cheerful and animated boy who cherished his elder siblings and enjoyed cartoons and cake.
“He brought much joy to everyone he encountered… He particularly enjoyed seeing films of birthday cakes being sliced, the boy’s father told Nine News.
When neighbors heard the blast, they went outside and saw a smoke plume coming from the backyard.
Many people made an effort to assist. One person recalled seeing people strolling their dogs and other neighbors running in with hoses.
A neighbor across the street reported hearing crying after seeing the wife and the boy’s siblings return home.
Now, the family will observe a two-week period of mourning in accordance with Burmese tradition.
According to Victoria Police, the circumstances surrounding the deadly fire are still being investigated.
Police are asking anyone with information or who saw the incident to call them.