In a horrifying act of domestic violence, a 36-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly setting a woman on fire in Kingston, a suburb south of Brisbane. The shocking incident has left the 34-year-old victim fighting for her life and the community grappling with the brutality of the crime.
Woman Rushed to Hospital With Serious Burns
Police and paramedics were called to a home on Kingston Court around 7:45 am on Saturday morning following reports of an altercation between a man and a woman. Upon arrival, they discovered the woman with severe burns to her body. After receiving initial treatment at the scene, she was rushed to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in serious condition.
Man Charged With Attempted Murder, Assault, and Breach of DV Order
Later that evening, the 36-year-old Kingston man was charged with attempted murder, common assault, and breach of a domestic violence order. Police will allege that during the altercation, the man produced a lighter and intentionally set the woman on fire. The property where the incident occurred, as well as nearby Gould Adams Park and the Kingston train station, were declared crime scenes as investigators worked to piece together the events leading up to the horrific act.
Domestic violence is a scourge on our society that ruins lives and tears families apart. We must do more to support victims, hold perpetrators accountable, and ultimately put an end to these sickening crimes.
– Domestic Violence Advocate Sonia Parkinson
Domestic Violence in Australia: A National Crisis
This incident is yet another horrifying example of the domestic violence epidemic gripping Australia. According to national statistics:
- 1 in 6 women have experienced physical or sexual violence by a current or former partner
- 1 woman is killed by her current or former partner every 9 days
- Intimate partner violence causes more illness, disability and deaths than any other risk factor for women aged 25-44
Behind these grim numbers are countless tragic stories like the one that unfolded in Kingston – of lives shattered and futures stolen by senseless acts of violence. Society must band together to provide better support for victims, harsher consequences for offenders, and tireless education to stop the cycle of abuse.
Support for Victims and Families
As the Kingston community reels from this shocking crime, support has poured out for the victim and her loved ones. Neighbors have left flowers and cards at the scene, while mental health professionals and social workers have made themselves available to help the family cope with the trauma and begin the long road to recovery.
For those who may be suffering from domestic violence, know that you are not alone and help is available. The National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service can be reached 24/7 at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).
Accused to Face Court as Investigation Continues
The 36-year-old accused has been denied bail and is scheduled to appear in Beenleigh Magistrates Court on Monday. He faces one count each of attempted murder, assault occasioning bodily harm, and contravention of a domestic violence order.
Meanwhile, detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. They are appealing for any witnesses or those with information to come forward and contact Crime Stoppers.
As this case progresses through the courts, the focus must remain on supporting the victim in her recovery and ensuring that justice is served. However, the work cannot stop there. Society as a whole must recommit to stamping out the scourge of domestic violence through education, support services, tougher laws, and a firm stand against all forms of abuse. Only then can we hope to prevent more horrific crimes like the one that has forever altered the lives of this woman and her family.
