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Les Crampton, along with his partner Wendy and their cherished pug, were peacefully sleeping when they were jolted awake by the blaring of a fire alarm and the unmistakable scent of smoke permeating their home.
Reports indicate that the couple initially managed to escape the fire, but the 69-year-old Crampton became trapped after re-entering their Ocean Grove residence.
Rescue teams were able to pull Crampton from the flames, but unfortunately, he could not be revived.
Tragically, the couple’s pug also lost its life in the tragic incident.
Crampton is fondly remembered by his community as a highly respected individual with a passion for flying.
“He was a wonderful man and it’s a terrible tragedy that’s happened, and he’ll always be thought of with very fond memories,” his friend Christie Houston told 9News.
“He loved racing cars and flying.
“He had a very altruistic company, where he was trying to help the environment.”
The tight-knit Ocean Grove community is now in mourning.
Neighbours said Crampton and his partner would often organise Christmas drinks.
Investigators and arson chemists have spent hours sifting through the home today to establish the source of the blaze.
The family believes the fire, which began in an office at the back of the home, may have been sparked by an electrical fault.