River Valley shophouse fire: Victim was an Australian; cooking school assisting with investigations

SINGAPORE: The 10-year-old girl who died after a fire at a shophouse in River Valley has been identified as an Australian national.

In response to queries from CNA, a spokesperson from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said on Wednesday (Apr 9) that it was providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian who died in Singapore. 

“We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time. Owing to our privacy obligations, we are unable to provide further comment,” they added. 

Consular assistance may include support and guidance to the family, and DFAT can also liaise with Singaporean and Australian authorities to assist with the girl’s funeral arrangements or the repatriation of her remains.

Earlier on Wednesday, a cooking school located in the shophouse said that it was providing the authorities with its “full cooperation and assistance” as they investigate the cause of the blaze.

Tomato Cooking School is also offering support to those who have been affected by the fire.

“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the fire that occurred at the shophouse. Our thoughts are with all the families and individuals affected during this difficult time,” it said in a Facebook post.

“The circumstances that led to the fire (are) currently under investigation by the relevant authorities. We are providing our full cooperation and assistance with the ongoing investigation.

“At this moment, our priority remains the safety and well-being of everyone involved. We will continue to work closely with the authorities and will provide updates when appropriate.”