UPDATE: The death of 88-year-old aged-care resident Charles Frederick Gill is now under urgent investigation following a suspicious fire at RSL LifeCare’s Ada Cottage in Kandos. The incident occurred on August 11, 2025, and has raised serious concerns about safety protocols within the facility.
On the night of the fire, staff at RSL LifeCare responded “within seconds,” following emergency procedures to evacuate residents. Mr. Gill was taken to Mudgee Hospital suffering from suspected smoke inhalation but tragically died the following day on August 12. Local authorities confirmed that NSW Police established a crime scene shortly after emergency services were summoned just after 11 PM.
As the investigation unfolds, police are currently awaiting the results of an autopsy and will prepare a report for the coroner. The death was officially reported to the coroner on August 14, 2025, prompting further scrutiny into the circumstances surrounding the fire.
RSL LifeCare stated that they have been in close contact with Mr. Gill’s family and are cooperating fully with the coroner’s investigations. The organization also reported the incident to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and confirmed that there were no identified faults with their fire prevention systems.
An independent forensic fire expert later assessed the situation, concluding that the fire was most likely sparked by a static discharge from a pressurized air mattress used in Mr. Gill’s care. This cause has been deemed “extremely rare” and has been reported to the mattress’s manufacturer.
In response to this tragic event, RSL LifeCare is conducting an internal review to identify necessary improvements. This includes enhancing emergency planning and training, as well as reviewing equipment handling policies to prevent future incidents.
As investigations continue, authorities urge anyone with additional information about the fire to come forward. This developing story highlights critical safety concerns within aged-care facilities, emphasizing the need for stringent safety measures to protect vulnerable residents.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation evolves.
