A widow and grandmother narrowly escaped a devastating fire at her home in Brisbane’s south, thanks to the bravery of her neighbours who rushed into the flames to save her and her son. Dianne Walsh described the chaos as loud explosions erupted, with her neighbours ensuring her safety amid the chaos. Having lived in her home for 22 years, she managed to grab only essential items during her escape, including USB sticks containing precious family photos. The fire left her home uninhabitable, causing immense heartbreak as it held many memories, including those of her late husband who passed away there in 2008. Additionally, she was concerned about leaving behind critical medication due to her diabetes. The fire also destroyed her son’s work vehicle. Queensland Fire Department officials confirmed significant water and smoke damage rendered the property unliveable, although they were able to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby homes. Investigators suspect the fire was initiated by a mechanical fault in a truck parked in the driveway, which ignited a second vehicle before engulfing the house. Despite the tragedy, Walsh expressed gratitude for her supportive neighbours.
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