Two 11yo boys have been charged over a destructive bushfire that destroyed one home and damaged property in Geraldton
Two boys have been charged in connection with a devastating wildfire that ripped through a coastal community this week, destroying a home and damaging property.
Police allege two 11-year-old boys started the fire in the Geraldton suburb of Spalding on November 28.
The fire spread to the forest area and was extinguished by firefighters, but it flared up again on Sunday due to weather conditions.
The fire was sparked by strong, swirling easterly winds of up to 80 km per hour from 5.20am on Monday morning, endangering lives and hundreds of properties in the city’s northern suburbs.
Residents fled their homes, schools were closed and thousands were left without power as the “dangerous” bushfire burned dangerously close to homes.
A police spokesman said four teenagers were identified during the investigation into the suspicious fire.
The spokesman said two 11-year-old children were referred to the Juvenile Justice Team on charges of Breach of Duty.
“Lighting a fire is extremely dangerous and can endanger life and property,” a spokesman said.
“We would like to thank Department of Fire and Emergency (DFES) crews and local volunteers for their rapid response to keep the Geraldton community safe.
“Investigators would also like to thank the Geraldton community for their assistance and providing valuable information supporting this investigation.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up for Nic Morgan and Lyn Bartlett, who lost their home in the devastating bushfire.
Family member Allee Bartlett said the couple returned home from medical appointments in Perth to find their world turned upside down.
“Devastatingly, they lost absolutely everything. They left their home with only the clothes on their backs and the belongings they took back to Perth,” he said.
“The most heartbreaking part was when they returned to find out that their beloved pet cat, Smudge, had not survived the fire. This loss shattered them.”
Goodstart Early Learning Wonthella also organized a fundraiser for staff Gail and her daughter, whose house was badly damaged by fire.
“In a single night, their world changed; they lost valuables, stability and the sense of security that every family deserves,” a spokesman said.
“Every donation – no matter the size – will directly help replace essential items, provide safe housing, and help Gail and Harper begin the long journey to repair their home and their lives.”
Police have asked anyone who sees suspicious behavior or has information about the bushfires to contact Crime Stoppers.
Rewards of up to $25,000 are available for information leading to the identification and conviction of an arsonist.
