Couple sue mechanic over blaze
A couple who lost their dream home in a gas explosion that rocked a Forrestfield suburb are suing the mechanic they claim caused it.
Stacey and David Lake saw their newly renovated home go up in flames, after a gas explosion in the garage sparked the blaze that destroyed the Reynolds Road home in January 2012.
Residents reported hearing a massive explosion at the double-storey home, with three fire engines needed to extinguish the blaze, which badly damaged both floors of the home.
The family were lucky to escape with their lives, as neighbours alerted them to the blaze. At the time, fire authorities said it was an accident.
The Lakes, who were planning their wedding at the time, lost everything - including Mrs Lake's wedding dress.
Their loss prompted a community fundraiser and donations of a cake, limousines and candles.
In a Supreme Court writ filed last week, Mr and Mrs Lake are claiming damages from mechanic Paul De Beaux, saying it was his negligence that caused the fire.
The Lakes are claiming recompense for "loss and damage by fire as a result of a gas explosion caused by the defendant's negligence, breach of contract and breach of statutory duty".
The couple are also claiming damages for personal injury, with Mr Lake believed to have suffered burns.
After the blaze, it was reported that it had begun when gas started leaking from a vehicle as it was being worked on in the garage, causing the explosion.
The renovated home in Forrestfield was recently put on the market for just over $500,000.
