A family is homeless and their nine-year-old daughter is dead after the father allegedly poured petrol around the house which caught fire and destroyed the home. 

The incident is now under investigation by officers of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) at Henderson police station.

The tragic burning incident occurred at Tenaru bridge area in North Central Guadalcanal.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Guadalcanal province, Chief Superintendent Rodney Kuma said incident occurred following an argument. 

“The horrific incident has occurred after an argument between husband and wife.”

PPC Kuma added, “It was alleged that the father took a 1.5 litre bottle containing petrol and poured it all over their home.

 “It was then that the building caught on fire. The father, mother and their 5-year-old son escaped with injuries while the young girl sadly could not escape the fire.”

Mr. Kuma said officers attended the scene and transported the victims to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) where they were being treated. 

He expressed condolences to the deceased families.

“Condolences to the immediate family, relatives and friends of the deceased for the loss of their loved one.”

The deceased and her family of four live in a house near the road, where they also store petrol and other products for sale. 

Investigation into the tragic incident is ongoing. Witnesses who are present that night are called on to come forward and help police with information. 
– RSIPF