Residents rattled as ‘lovely’ mum dies in alleged arson
Savannah Meacham |
A rural community is reeling after learning a loving and caring mother of two was allegedly murdered by her husband in a house fire.
A home at Geham, in a rural community north of Toowoomba, went up in flames just before 3am on Tuesday, with police later finding a body inside.
Police are yet to make a formal identification as forensic testing is still under way but the body is believed to be that of Louise Susannah Hunt.
Two children were home at the time of the blaze but are safe and well, Superintendent George Marchesini told reporters on Wednesday.
Cameron Robert Hunt, 45, has been charged with the domestic violence murder of his wife and arson of the home.
Neighbours along the rural road through paddocks and gum trees were woken by flashing blue and red lights and the smell of smoke.
A neighbouring family, who didn’t want to be named, were shocked and devastated when they found out Ms Hunt had been killed.
They tearily told AAP the Hunts were a “lovely family” and although they mostly kept to themselves, they could be a lot of fun.
The neighbours said Ms Hunt was kind, caring and a hard-working mum while her husband always checked in on those around him.
“We never saw it coming … it rattles you,” the neighbours said.
“What should we have done as a community to see the signs.”
Another neighbour told AAP it was a shocking incident.
“We’re still coming to terms with it … it’s so close to home,” he said.
Others have taken to social media to mourn the loss of the beloved mother, with local mayor Geoff McDonald posting the community was heartbroken by the “tragic and senseless” loss.
“Our deepest condolences go out to all who are grieving. No one should ever have their life taken by violence,” he posted on Facebook.
“May the memory of Louise be a light in the darkness.”
Hunt’s matter was mentioned at Toowoomba Magistrates Court on Wednesday, where he was excused from appearing, and he remains at the watch house.
The case has been adjourned for three months for police to prepare a brief of evidence with the matter back in court on July 16.
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