An Indian-origin man is fighting for life after suffering severe burns while saving his sister during a devastating restaurant fire in South Australia’s Adelaide Hills.
Baljeet Singh, 47, remains in a critical condition in the burns unit at the Royal Adelaide Hospital after sustaining burns to about 70 per cent of his body in the blaze at the Mustard Seed restaurant in Hahndorf on Tuesday night.
Family members told 7News that Singh acted instinctively when flames suddenly engulfed the premises.
His brother-in-law, Inderjeet Singh, said Baljeet pushed his sister Satbir out of harm’s way moments before being overwhelmed by the fire.
“My brother-in-law… he got a lot of fire on him and saved my wife. He’s a brave man.”
The pair had reportedly entered the restaurant after hearing an unusual noise, only for a sudden explosion of flames to erupt inside.
“All of a sudden a big, big fire lit up… he pushed my wife away and he was pretty much burned, and my wife got burned as well.”
Singh has since undergone emergency surgery as doctors work to stabilise his condition. His family described the extent of his injuries as devastating and said they were praying for his recovery.
“His skin is all burned… he’s got 70 per cent burns all over his body. He’s a tough man and we are praying for him.”
Amid the trauma, the family has also spoken out against online speculation linking them to the cause of the fire, stressing they had no involvement. “With the rumours and speculation, I just feel so sad,” Inderjeet said.
“This is really devastating because right now we are going through a lot of pain and mental pressure.”
The owners of the Mustard Seed restaurant said the venue was more than a business, describing it as a second home filled with memories and loyal customers.
Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the blaze, with the family expressing concern that the fire may have been suspicious. They have urged anyone with information or CCTV footage to come forward.
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