Grief overwhelms families of trio killed in house fire
The devastated families of a woman and two boys killed in a house fire say they have been “forever changed” by the tragedy that ripped their community apart.
Jordana Johnson, 36, her 12-year-old son Jordan Norris and her friend Chazz Mather, also 12, were killed in a fire that destroyed a two-storey house in central Queensland on October 15.
Almost a week later, the victims’ families spoke publicly for the first time as the Gladstone community planned to remember the trio at a beachside gathering.
“Three beautiful souls were tragically taken from us,” they said in a statement published on social media via Gladstone MP Glenn Butcher on Tuesday.
“The impact of this terrible incident is deeply felt not only by our family, but by the Gladstone community and the entire country.
“Our lives and those of everyone who loved and knew Jordana, Jordan and Chazz have been changed forever.”
The community rallied around the victims’ families as police investigated the cause of the fire, and a meeting was planned for Saturday at nearby Barney Point Beach.
“We are overwhelmed with grief, but also absolutely grateful for the love, support and generosity shown to our families,” the families said. he said.
Mrs. Johnson is remembered as a big-hearted, devoted mother whose children were “her world.”
His son Jordan was “fun, playful and cheeky” and protective of his family and friends.
His friend Chazz was described as an outgoing “loving soul with a cheeky attitude”.
The fire is believed to have started while Chazz was visiting for a sleepover.
“Jordan and Chazz were more than just friends, they were brothers,” the families said.
It took crews almost two hours to extinguish the fire on October 15; The search for the trio was initially hampered by the collapse of the top floor of the house.
The fourth person who survived the fire was treated at the hospital with minor injuries.
Gladstone MP Mr Butcher said family, friends and community members were welcome to attend the weekend gathering to pay their respects.
A GoFundMe account has also been set up to help the victims’ families, with more than $24,000 raised by the end of Tuesday.
