Melbourne Hillside family loses home and belongings after oil heater fire

A Hillside family of five was left homeless and hospitalized after an oil heater sparked an overnight blaze that ripped through their home in Melbourne's northwest.

Neighbors heard a loud bang and desperate screams as flames engulfed the boys' bedroom. James smashed through a window to reach Zayne and Izaiah, pulling them to safety while suffering deep cuts and severe burns himself, including damage to an artery in his arm.

James was rushed to The Alfred Hospital, where he was placed in intensive care with extensive burns and lacerations. Zayne, 7, was taken to Royal Children's Hospital in a critical condition after suffering third-degree burns to his face, hands and feet. Rochelle and Izaiah, both with third-degree burns, were listed in stable condition, while Ava-Leigh, 3, escaped with only minor facial burns.

Fire investigators believe the blaze was sparked by an oil heater in the boys' bedroom, and authorities said the incident is not being treated as suspicious.

Thirty firefighters battled the blaze; the home and all belongings were destroyed, and the family did not have contents insurance.

Neighbors have dropped off clothes, toys and essentials, and local businesses have donated furniture and other household items.

A GoFundMe campaign launched by James' sister Laressa Turetahi has raised more than $121,000 toward a $180,000 goal.

‘No amount is too small,’ Laressa said. 'The funds will go directly toward medical costs, ongoing care, and helping the family rebuild their lives. Even if you can't donate, please share the campaign. Every bit helps.'

Police said the fire is not suspicious, and investigators will continue to determine the exact cause. Community members are rallying behind the family as they navigate the aftermath and seek support for medical treatment and rebuilding.