A New Zealand woman remains in critical condition at a Brisbane hospital after a man allegedly set her on fire.
Destiny Otton-Rakuraku, 34, has been identified as a mum of two and support worker with “a natural and giving heart”.
A 36-year-old man has been charged with one count each of attempted murder and common assault.
Police allege the incident occurred on Saturday at a home on Kingston Court, Kingston– about 26km south of Brisbane.
The man allegedly produced a lighter and lit Otton-Rakuraku on fire. And neighbours reportedly saw the young mother on fire and came to her aid, according to The Courier Mail.
She was transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in a serious condition, according to police.
The 26-year-old man is due to appear in Beenleigh Magistrates Court on Monday.
The eldest daughter in a family of seven, Otton-Rakuraku is a mother to two teenage boys. She is originally from Auckland.
Speaking to 7 News, Otton-Rakuraku’s mother Alison Rakuraku and best friend Emma Nguyen described the situation as “traumatic”.
“She’s strong,” Alison said about her daughter. “We’ll just be strong for our girl.”
Family friend Monique Kidd described Otton-Rakuraku as “a support worker with a natural giving heart”.
Kidd has launched an online fundraiser to support Otton-Rakuraku’s family.
“As her family sit by her bedside, on behalf of my friends whose reality is currently a living nightmare, I wanted to try to ease the stress. Any donation, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in easing the financial burden so they can focus on her recovery,” Kidd writes, noting that all funds will go towards Otton-Rakuraku’s medical care and other expenses.
“As you can imagine the unbearable pain that has been put on the family, it is my hope that enough funds will be raised to take some stress off the family.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit http://www.ntv.org.au.
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