Authorities have revoked the emergency declaration for Nambucca Close in Murrumba Downs following the massive explosion that rocked a residential neighbourhood last week. However, police are still urging people to avoid the area if possible as the investigation continues.
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The blast occurred around 1:00 p.m. on 12 July 2023 at a home on Nambucca Close. Neighbours reported hearing an incredibly loud explosion that sounded like something landed on their roofs. The subsequent fire engulfed the residence.
Earlier in the week, authorities had declared an exclusion zone around the site whilst streets were closed, including Nambucca Cl, Yaraki Ct, Pine River Dr and Drysdale Ct. Hastings St and Evans Ct were also shut down for several hours after the incident.
The burned down house was owned by Garry William Maidment, according to public records. Unidentified human remains were discovered on the property prior to the fire, based on a statement from local authorities.
Mr Maidment allegedly had difficulty making mortgage payments on the home, causing him to post on his social media account about planning to seek revenge against his body corporate and bank days before the incident. The medical examiner’s office has not yet released the identity of the human remains found at the scene.
A fundraiser has been launched for a neighbouring family, whose property sustained significant damage from the explosion and fire. During the incident, a 19-year-old resident of the property was home when the roof suddenly caved in on the lounge room where she was sitting. Thankfully, the victim was able to free herself from the rubble physically unharmed, but the traumatic experience has left her shaken.
The family’s dog and their guinea pigs were able to be rescued by a helpful neighbour. Sadly, the family’s beloved cats remain missing after likely running away during the chaos.
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The cause of the blast remains under investigation. Whilst the emergency declaration has been lifted, police say the area remains an active investigation site. Residents are encouraged to avoid the location if possible to allow investigators to complete their work as the forensic investigations will take several days.
Published 17-July-2023
