A quiet morning in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges community of Emerald turned to tragedy when a fierce house fire claimed the lives of two people, now identified as a local couple.
Emergency services rushed to the Kilvington Drive property around 9:20 am on Tuesday after receiving multiple reports of a residence well alight. Despite the rapid response of firefighters, the blaze had already taken hold of the single-storey weatherboard home.
Police Treat Fire as Suspicious
Victoria Police have confirmed they're treating the fatal fire as suspicious and have launched a comprehensive investigation. Arson chemists attended the scene on Wednesday to conduct forensic testing, working alongside homicide detectives to determine the fire's origin.
"The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined and the investigation remains ongoing," a police spokesperson stated. The grim discovery was made once firefighters managed to bring the intense flames under control.
Community in Mourning
The victims have been formally identified as Emerald residents John Szymik, 68, and his 58-year-old wife Tarnya. Friends and neighbours have described the couple as beloved members of the close-knit community.
Local residents expressed their shock and devastation, with one neighbour telling reporters the couple were "really lovely people" who would be deeply missed. The tight-knit Emerald community, known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere, is now grappling with this heartbreaking loss.
Appeal for Information
Police are urging anyone with information about the fire to come forward, particularly those who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the Kilvington Drive area on Tuesday morning.
Investigators are also seeking any dashcam footage from vehicles that passed through the neighbourhood between 8:30 am and 9:30 am on the day of the tragedy. The police probe continues as the community seeks answers about this devastating incident.
