The family of a man who died in a house fire along with his five children has spoken out as fresh details about the tragedy emerged.
On Sunday morning, five young children died alongside their father after their home on Todman Street in Queensland, Australia, burst into flames.
According to the early reports, 34-year-old Wayne Godinet died in the blaze while bravely attempting to save his children who were trapped on the second floor. Neighbors and friends of the young father have since branded the man as a super dad and a hero who sacrificed his life in hopes of saving the lives of his kids.
Now, Godinet’s family has spoken out and shared additional information about the tragedy.
“I stayed awake, mourning the loss of 6 beautiful souls. We have suffered a great loss. I find comfort knowing you rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord. With Grumpy and Nicky. To my whanau in Queensland, I feel your pain and aroha. I’ll be there soon,” the children’s aunt, Emma-Lee Headrick, expressed.
Meanwhile, it was revealed that the massive blaze had spread to two other properties in the area and that nine people in total – including the children’s mother – were treated for injuries and burns.
It wasn’t until Sunday afternoon, several hours after the fire broke out, that the blaze was put out and that first responders managed to reach the bodies of the five children and their dad.
Speaking out was also family friend Peter Macloughlin who arrived at the home on Sunday to find the children’s mother in a state of distress.
“The mother came out very distressed saying the children were inside as was her partner there was nothing I could do,” he said. “(They were) great kids, the older one I just gave him a bike yesterday.”
As of this writing, several elements of the blaze remain under investigation. The police confirmed, however, that the fire is not being treated as suspicious.
“In terms of best investigative processes, the elements that need further investigation or clarification must remain confidential at this stage,” Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham said.
The police also confirmed that the father was known to the police and that officers previously visited the property on several occasions. The nature and frequency of the visits remain unclear.
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