A single-storey residence on Stannard Street in Bentley, Perth's southern suburbs, was extensively damaged by fire on Sunday morning. Emergency services responded to the incident, where firefighters encountered a full structure fire and a partial roof collapse. The status of individuals believed to reside at the property remains under investigation, with at least one occupant reported unlocated. Law enforcement agencies have assumed control of the inquiry into the fire's origin.
Incident Details
Emergency services were alerted to the incident at approximately 11:30 AM on Sunday, following reports to Triple-0 of a loud sound emanating from the property. Upon arrival, Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) crews found the single-storey house fully involved in flames.
During initial operations, a partial roof collapse occurred, prompting firefighters to withdraw from the interior and continue efforts from the exterior of the building. DFES incident controller David Broadbent reported that "over half the roof has caved in," attributing the structural compromise to the heat. A secondary search of the property commenced at approximately 12:30 PM.
Emergency Response and Damage
Four DFES crews, comprising more than 20 firefighters, responded to the blaze. The fire was brought under control in approximately one hour. The property sustained extensive damage. Prevailing weather conditions were noted as making firefighting operations challenging.
Two firefighters received hospital treatment for heat exhaustion during the incident and were subsequently discharged.
Occupants and Investigation
The status of the property's occupants is currently under investigation. Two individuals are believed to reside at the address, and as of Sunday afternoon, efforts to account for all individuals were ongoing, with one individual believed to have been present at the residence remaining unlocated.
Law enforcement agencies have assumed control of the incident investigation. Fire investigators remained at the scene until late afternoon. Initial investigations suggest the fire originated towards the middle-rear section of the property. The exact cause of the blaze remains undetermined. Western Australia Police have not issued any public statements regarding the ongoing inquiry.
Witness Accounts
Neighbors reported hearing loud noises associated with the fire. One resident described hearing an "explosion-like sound" before observing a large smoke plume and evacuating. Another neighbor reported hearing a bang followed by a beeping noise, then observing fire at the rear of the house. This neighbor also reported seeing a man in the backyard of the affected home prior to calling emergency services.