A Gold Coast grandfather is fighting for life with fears he may not survive after his family home was torched, with neighbours rushing to save those trapped inside. Four people were inside the Hope Island home when flames erupted, leaving Bob Marsh, 85, and his daughter Kathy Windsor, 59, fighting for life.
Neighbours recall harrowing rescue
Neighbour Eli Bijl-Kakoi described hearing screams: "Screaming, oh, my ex is trying to kill us, my ex is trying to kill us." The family says a 38-year-old man removed keys from deadlocks to trap them inside before hurling firebombs at the property. Hero neighbours Bijl-Kakoi and Meihana Pauling rushed to their rescue as the family desperately tried to escape. "I think anyone would have helped in that situation," Bijl-Kakoi said.
Injuries and casualties
Bob, along with Kathy's new partner, suffered critical burns in the attack. Kathy broke her back after leaping from a balcony to escape the flames. Her adult son avoided injury. "They were banging on the garage from the inside. I mean, Eli just had to grab it with two hands and yank it open," Pauling said. All were rushed to hospital. The arsonist was found dead inside the home.
Police and family respond
"It just highlights the fragility of human relationships," Detective Superintendent Chris Ahearn said. In a statement, the family said: "This has been the most heartbreaking time of our lives. The kindness, generosity and compassion of others will help us begin to heal and rebuild." Police had been called to the home just last week. The arsonist was subject to a domestic violence order.
Domestic violence warning
Authorities are urging anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek help. "Any violence is absolutely unacceptable and people need to call it out and report it to the authorities," Ahearn said. DV lawyer Kathleen Simpson said: "The horror that would have gone on in that household last night is unimaginable. And will keep rippling through the community for a long time to come."
Victims' current condition
Bob remains on life support at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital. His family does not expect him to survive the next few hours. The man pulled from the home alongside him is still fighting for his life. Kathy remains heavily medicated, still grappling with the pain of her injuries and also the shock over what's happened.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call triple-0. For advice and counselling for men concerned about their use of family violence call 1300 766 491.
