THE Boort district is wrapping its arms around the family of a three-year-old boy killed in a caravan fire last Thursday night.
Emergency services were called to Lake View Street shortly before 6pm on January 2 after reports a caravan had caught fire.
Fire crews extinguished the blaze and a deceased child, from the Greater Bendigo area, was found inside.
The child’s aunty, Jess Sargeant, posted on social media to announce a GoFundMe had been launched to help support the parents.
“My brother Ben Keeble and his beautiful wife, Lori Keeble (nee Stringer), have had to go through something no parent should ever have to endure and have had to say goodbye to their beautiful little boy,” she said.
“We have organised and are sharing this GoFundMe as a way to help them out in the near future.
“As they grapple with the reality of their loss, and move forward with everyday life – to help out with funeral expenses and anything that may be needed.”
The GoFundMe had already raised more than $30,000 by Monday.
A major arson squad investigation was under way, and arson chemists and detectives spent much of Friday at the scene.
“At this stage the fire has been deemed nonsuspicious, and enquiries remain ongoing,” a police spokesperson said.
“Officers are aware of the impact that such a tragic incident has on family, community members and first responders and will ensure that welfare services are in place.”
Boort District Health chief executive Donna Doyle, speaking on behalf of the boy’s family, said they were “totally devastated”.
“It’s just an unimaginable tragedy and the family are totally devastated and wrapping each other in love and support at this time,” she told reporters in Boort on Friday.
“They’ve just had Christmas and new year and wonderful, amazing experiences with their families and friends and memories to cherish forever now.
“We just wish that tragedies like this never had to happen to anyone, and never had to happen to anyone that we know and love.
“Moving on from this is going to be incredibly difficult for everyone involved.”
The local supermarket put together food packages and the caravan park supplied accommodation.
Ms Doyle said the local hospital was offering support for those impacted, including first responders.
“Our emergency services people are incredible, and to volunteer for fire or ambulance, or to work for the police or SES in a community like Boort, it comes with an understanding that you know you’re going to likely be heading to somewhere that is familiar to you and someone that you know somehow,” she said.
“They’ve all walked away last night incredibly torn about what’s happened.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
