Three people died because of Christmas tree lights fire

Justine Collison, 33, along with her daughter Izzy, 8, and son Harvey, 5, died in a fire on December 14 at their home in Collingham, Nottinghamshire. Justine was described as a "beautiful and kind" woman.

Justin's husband, Gavin Collison, 34, is in critical condition in hospital, while Justine's mother, Diane, was fortunately brought out safely.

The tragedy happened just 10 days before Christmas. Baby Harvey was rescued from the fire but later died in hospital. According toLincolnshire LiveThe fire was likely caused by an old and broken flashing light system, which caused the withering pine tree to catch fire and burn.

Paul Norton, a neighbor of the family, and his son Elliott tried to break in through the back door after seeing a red spot inside the Collison home in the early hours of December 14. However, their efforts were unsuccessful. Firefighters arrived on the scene shortly after.

"I looked out the ground floor window and saw a light inside. There was a lot of smoke coming out. I shouted to Elliott and we immediately called the fire department. We went to the front door, knocked on the window, then went around to the back door," Mr Norton said.

The 57-year-old man added that the lights were off in the house at the time, but he knew his family was inside because their car was still parked in front of the door.

"There was a lot of smoke and the doorknobs were very hot. After spraying the house with water, the fire brigade went inside with breathing apparatus. They brought more fire fighting equipment. The people inside the house were carried on their shoulders to get out. The firefighters quickly gave first aid to the victims. At that time, I was shocked and speechless by what happened before my eyes," Mr. Norton continued.

Sharing the incident on Facebook, the Collingham Fire Department later wrote: "Our deepest condolences, prayers and sympathies go out to the Collison family, their loved ones, friends and all the people of Collingham County. We are deeply saddened and know that the process of recovering from this loss will undoubtedly be long and difficult."

Many friends of the Collisons sent their condolences after the disaster, which claimed the lives of Justine and her two young children.

"Woke up in a sweat. I still can't believe it's true. I can't stop thinking about the sad news that Justine Collison and her two children have passed away. You never know when your life will end. She lived bravely, to the fullest, without fear of hardship or danger. My head feels like it's exploding, my heart is heavy. It's so heartbreaking for the whole family. I don't know what to say, other than sad tears and love to the three of them," a friend shared.