The grieving family of a young mum who was killed in a devastating house fire alongside her partner and child, have spoken about their loss at an emotional memorial service.
Abbey Forrest, 19, partner Inda Sohal, 28, and their three-week-old baby Ivy died in their Point Cook, Melbourne home last Wednesday.
The news of their death shocked the nation, after it was revealed the horrifying blaze was allegedly deliberately lit.
Ms Forrest’s parents Alan and Elizabeth attended a memorial dedicated to the young family on Sunday along with dozens of members of the community, who brought balloons, toys and flowers to the site to remember the family.
A tree has been planted at a nearby park as a way to permanently honour the family, who had only just moved to the neighbourhood.
Mrs Forrest broke down while talking to 9News, revealing she had only just spoken to the “glowing” and “beautiful” mum just hours before the tragedy.
“I spoke to her the night before and she said: ‘Love you mum, talk to you tomorrow’,” Mrs Forrest said.
“Hug your children, because you’re not supposed to bury your children.
“So give them a hug and let them know that you love them, because you never know when you’ll see them again.”
Mr Forrest told the Herald Sun the “magic” memorial and support from the community helped his family as they grieve.
“I’m absolutely amazed by the amount of people and their generosity and support of what happened to my daughter, my granddaughter and future son-in-law,” he said.
“The amount of people who had that support for us, it’s just amazing.”
Victoria Police have charged 46-year-old Jenny Hayes with three counts of murder and arson causing death following the fire.
Abbey’s sister Emily has also set up a GoFundMe to help cover funeral costs and has so far made $31, 116.
Mr Singh’s parents, who live in India, are planning to hold a traditional ceremony for their son in his homeland.
“I want to do what we can for all three of these beautiful souls who had their lives tragically cut short,” Emily Forrest wrote on the fundraising page.
Ms. Hayes is a sex worker who was not known to the young family.
She was visiting a man staying in the downstairs portion of their family townhouse.
She allegedly lit a mattress on fire after the pair argued over sexual services.
“As you are all aware, this has now been confirmed it was a deliberately lit fire and a 46yo woman has been taken into custody,” she posted.
“A big thank you to the emergency services who tried to save them, neighbours who attended that night and did their best, and all of those who have sent their sympathies and condolences whether you be family, friends or strangers.
“The community we are in is amazing and my family and I are beyond grateful for the help and support you have given and offered.”
Ms Hayes will next face court in March 2021.