Heartbreaking twist emerges after a mum was allegedly murdered by her husband in a horror house fire
A mother killed in a house fire allegedly lit by her husband volunteered for a domestic violence charity.
A mother killed in a house fire allegedly lit by her husband volunteered for a domestic violence charity.
Queensland mother-of-two Louise Susannah Hunt was allegedly murdered by Cameron Robert Hunt, 45, at a Geham home in a rural community north of Toowoomba, just before 3am on Tuesday.
Authorities discovered a body inside the charred home and while police are yet to make a formal identification with forensic testing is still underway, the remains are believed to be that of the 42-year-old wife and mother.
Two children at home at the time managed to escape unharmed.
Hunt has been charged with domestic violence murder and arson.
His wife Louise was a passionate supporter of Protea Place, a Toowoomba charity that helps vulnerable women.
Its where she struck up a close bond with charity chief executive Amanda Dalton, who fought back tears as she paid tribute to her late friend.
When its someone you know personally, it just knocks the absolute wind out of you on an even deeper level, she told Seven News.
Queensland mother-of-two Louise Hunt was allegedly murdered by her husband Cameron Hunt (pictured together) in a house fire on Tuesday
Authorities discovered a body inside the charred home and while police are yet to make a formal identification, the remains are believed to be that of the 42-year-old wife and mother
Despite being surrounded by the horrors of domestic violence every day, Ms Dalton said having an alleged victim in her inner circle added a whole new layer of grief.
She absolutely lived for her children and her family, Ms Dalton told the Courier Mail.
They were her everything and will always be her everything. Our hearts are just broken for her children and her family.
Ms Hunt regularly attended Protea Place events with her family and parents.
The (family) are at every event, they believe in supporting the work that we do and Louise was there, flying the banner at every opportunity, Ms Dalton said.
May is Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month and we have a candlelight vigil … Lou would have been there, supporting others and now here we are.
Police said there was no previous reported domestic violence history between the couple. Nor was there an active domestic violence order in place.
Neighbours were woken by flashing blue and red lights and the smell of smoke early Tuesday morning.
Ms Hunt (left) was a massive supporter of Protea Place, a charity that helps vulnerable women
Mr Hunt has been charged with the domestic violence murder of his wife and arson of the home
Protea Place CEO Amanda Dalton said Louise Hunt (pictured) absolutely lived for her kids
One family, who didnt want to be named, were shocked and devastated when they learned of Ms Hunts death
They told AAP the Hunts as a lovely family, who mostly kept to themselves, but added that they could be a lot of fun.
The neighbours added Ms Hunt was kind, caring and a hard-working mum while her husband always checked in on those around him.
We never saw it coming — it rattles you, they said.
What should we have done as a community to see the signs?
Another neighbour added: Were still coming to terms with it - its so close to home.
Others took to social media to mourn the loss of the beloved mother, led by Ms Hunts sister.
Ms Hunt (pictured with her husband) regularly attended Protea Place events with her family and parents
Two children were home at the time of the blaze but are safe and well
Loved beyond measure forever and always, fly high my beautiful sister, I love you so much, she wrote.
Toowoomba Mayor Geoff McDonald said that the community was heartbroken by the tragic and senseless loss.
Our deepest condolences go out to all who are grieving, he posted on Facebook.
No one should ever have their life taken by violence.
May the memory of Louise be a light in the darkness.
Ms Hunts colleagues also paid tribute to the marketing specialist, who worked for vehicle accessory company Tuff Australia.
The impact on the Tuff family has been enormous and incomprehensible, the company said.
We are together grieving the loss of a work colleague, friend and an exceptional human being.
Mr Hunts matter was mentioned at Toowoomba Magistrates Court on Wednesday, where he was excused from appearing, and he remains at the watch house (pictured, Ms and Mr Hunt)
Toowoomba Mayor Geoff McDonald said that the community was heartbroken by the tragic and senseless loss of Ms Hunt (pictured with Mr Hunt)
On their website, Tuff Australia described Louise as someone who embraced life.
Louises adventurous spirit was evident from a young age.
Growing up in Zimbabwe, she had encounters that not many can boast about, including being chased by an elephant and a warthog.
As for her dream holiday destination, Louises ideal retreat involved a beach and cocktails.
Any place that combines the soothing sound of waves with the clink of glasses was her idea of the perfect getaway.
Hunts matter was mentioned at Toowoomba Magistrates Court on Wednesday, where he was excused from appearing.
The case has been adjourned for three months for police to prepare a brief of evidence.
Hunt was remanded in custody and will appear in court on July 16.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.