A mother has been charged with murdering three of her children after police said a "suspicious" fire engulfed their family home.
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The 36-year-old, who remains in hospital under police guard, was charged with murder, attempted murder and arson on May 13.
Fire at family home
Emergency services were called to Harristown, Toowoomba at 12.30am on May 7 with reports that a fire had started at a home on Merritt Street.
The house was "fully engulfed" as emergency services tried to save those inside, police said.
A 34-year-old man, an 18-year-old man and an 11-year-old boy escaped the fire with non-life-threatening injuries.
Two children, aged four and seven, were pulled from the home with critical injuries and they died in hospital.
Police searched the home for a missing 9-year-old boy. A body believed to be the boy was discovered inside on May 7.
Murder charges laid
The 36-year-old woman remains under police guard at Royal Brisbane Women's Hospital as she recovers from her injuries.
The woman was charged with three counts of domestic violence murder, three counts of domestic violence attempted murder and one count of arson.
Detective Superintendent George Marchesini said the family had "some interaction" with police and all interactions with the family will be part of the investigation.
He extended Queensland Police's deepest sympathies to the families, friends and those involved in the tragic event.
"Toowoomba is a tight-knit community and this tragedy will no doubt have a considerable impact," he said.
Police are not currently looking for anyone else connected to this alleged crime.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Support is available for those who may be distressed:
- Phone Lifeline 13 11 14
- Men's Referral Service 1300 776 491
- 13 Yarn 13 92 76
- Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
- beyondblue 1300 224 636
- 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732
Ayden Dawkins
Ayden is the digital editor for ACM's Victorian mastheads.
Do you have a story that should be told? Email him at ayden.dawkins@acm.media
Anna Houlahan
Anna Houlahan is a journalist for the Courier, dedicated to uncovering the stories that shape the city. Reach out with news or updates to anna.houlahan@austcommunitymedia.com.au
