- By Jane Nixon, Franklin Times
Almost $25,000 has been donated in 10 days to support the surviving family members of the fatal Bucklands Beach house fire on October 2.
Counties Manukau Police are treating the incident as a double homicide.
The blaze at a home in Murvale Drive claimed the lives of 36-year-old Jung Sup Lee and his 11-year-old son, Ha-il Lee.
Three other people, including the child’s mother and sibling, managed to escape the early-morning fire, which emergency services found the house already “engulfed in flames” when they arrived shortly after 2.30am.
A Givealittle page set up on behalf of the family has seen an overwhelming response from members of the community, with nearly $25,000 raised in a week and a half.
“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, generosity, and support over the weeks,” the page’s organiser wrote.
“Your kindness and donations have brought a sense of comfort and hope during an incredibly difficult time.”
The fundraising goal has now been changed to an open one to continue helping the survivors recover and rebuild their lives.
Detective inspector Tofilau Faamanuia Va’aelua, Counties Manukau Police crime manager, says the fire is being investigated as a double homicide.
An accelerant was found at the scene, and forensic analysis is under way, he says.
Police are appealing for CCTV, dash-cam, or GoPro footage from residents in Bucklands Beach and surrounding suburbs, including Howick, Sunnyhills, Mellons Bay, Botany Downs, and Highland Park, between 10pm on October 1 and 5am on October 2.
“Our thoughts and sympathies remain with the family at this difficult time,” Va’aelua says.
“It’s imperative that we find the person or persons responsible for this.”
Information from the public can be shared via the online portal for Operation Town: town.nc3.govt.nz or by contacting police on 105 quoting case reference 251002/9501.
