Family Devastated as Arson Attack Engulfs Home, Echoes of Past Tragedy
A Queensland family, still grappling with the profound grief of losing a teenager to a brutal stabbing, has been subjected to further unimaginable trauma. A devastating arson attack has left their home and two neighbouring properties engulfed in flames, with police now charging a relative with the crime.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday afternoon, has plunged the Beaumont family into renewed despair. The blaze tore through a property on Weaber Street in Clontarf, devastating the home of Ben Beaumont, his partner Michelle Liddle, and their young son. Tragically, this is the same family that lost 15-year-old Angus Beaumont to a fatal stabbing in March 2020.
A Nightmare Re-lived
The family’s aunt, acclaimed author Mandy Beaumont, confirmed the horrific ordeal, revealing the extent of the devastation. “It was an alleged arson attack while they were in their house – my brother, his partner, and their son,” she explained, her voice heavy with anguish. “It looks like they’ve lost everything.”
The impact of this latest tragedy is amplified by the lingering pain of Angus’s murder. “This on top of [Angus’s murder] is just too much,” Mandy continued, her words painting a grim picture of the scene. “I don’t know what’s left of the house. Angus’s ashes are in the house, and I don’t know what’s to come of them, but it looks pretty bad.”
The GoFundMe appeal launched by Mandy Beaumont aims to provide crucial support for her displaced family, helping them rebuild their lives after losing all their possessions.
The Fire’s Devastating Spread
According to Queensland Police, the alleged arson attack began at approximately 1:50 pm on Saturday. Investigators claim that 36-year-old Corey Wardle, who is Angus Beaumont’s maternal half-brother and operates a local yard maintenance business, used an accelerant to ignite the fire at one of the Weaber Street residences before fleeing the scene.
Within a short period, the fire escalated dramatically. By 3:00 pm, an alarming twelve fire trucks were battling the inferno. The intensity of the blaze meant it quickly spread, consuming two adjoining properties and leaving a trail of utter destruction.
Public Safety and Investigation
The severity of the situation prompted authorities to establish a public safety exclusion zone at 2:10 pm. Residents in the surrounding streets, including Watson, Isobel, Enoch, Gerald Avenue, Wendy Crescent, Bright Avenue, and Cornelius Street, were urged to remain indoors with their windows shut as a precautionary measure. This emergency declaration was eventually revoked at 4:20 pm.
Thankfully, the police confirmed that no one sustained any injuries during the incident. A critical part of the investigation involved the police dog squad, which successfully located Wardle.
Charges and Court Appearance
Corey Wardle has since been charged with arson, with the charge carrying a domestic violence designation. He is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, June 1st, to face these serious allegations.
Seeking Support
This devastating turn of events highlights the immense emotional and practical challenges faced by families dealing with such profound loss and trauma. For anyone experiencing distress or needing support, several vital services are available:
- Lifeline: Offers confidential crisis support and suicide prevention services. They can be reached on 13 11 14 or through their website at lifeline.org.au.
- 1800RESPECT: Provides national counselling, information, and support for those affected by domestic, family, and sexual violence. The contact number is 1800 737 732.
- Kids Helpline: Offers free, private, and confidential counselling for young people aged 5 to 25. They can be contacted on 1800 551 800.
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