A quiet Queensland neighbourhood has been shattered by an unimaginable tragedy after emergency services discovered five bodies following a devastating house fire in Gladstone.
The horrific blaze erupted in the early hours of Tuesday morning, with frantic neighbours reporting hearing explosions and seeing flames tearing through the suburban property on Denmark Street.
Emergency Response and Grim Discovery
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services raced to the scene just after 1:30am, but despite their heroic efforts, they were unable to save those trapped inside the inferno.
Police confirmed the grim discovery of five fatalities within the charred remains of the property, marking one of the most tragic incidents in the region's recent history.
Major Investigation Underway
Authorities have revealed they are treating the fire as suspicious, with detectives from Gladstone CIB launching a major investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Forensic officers and fire investigators have been meticulously combing through the scene, working to determine the exact cause of the blaze that claimed so many lives.
Community in Shock
Local residents have spoken of their horror, with one neighbour describing hearing what sounded like explosions before seeing the property completely engulfed in flames.
The tight-knit community has been left reeling, with counselling services being arranged for those affected by the traumatic event.
Police Appeal for Information
Investigators are urging anyone with information about the fire or who noticed any suspicious activity in the Denmark Street area to come forward.
Police have established a crime scene as they work to piece together the final moments before the tragic blaze took hold.
The identities of the victims have not yet been formally released as authorities work to notify all next of kin.
