TRIBUTES FLOW FOR LOVED COUPLE
LIFT TRAGEDY
THE elderly northern Queensland couple who tragically died after a fall from their home elevator have been remembered as beloved grandparents.
Sebastiano ‘Sib’ Grasso and Maria Grasso were found critically injured in their Ayr home on Wednesday. Police said it was thought the couple fell from their home elevator, and investigators are looking into whether there was a mechanical malfunction.
It’s believed the lift didn’t have a door installed and police say the pair fell from a height, landing on a concrete floor.
Emergency services were called to the couple’s home just after midday.
Both suffered critical head injuries as a result of the incident and were taken to Townsville University Hospital, where they passed away.
The couple come from a wellknown cane farming family, with condolences flowing in for them on social media.
It’s understood the Grasso family had lived in the Burdekin community for decades.
“So sad! At least they are together in heaven,” Joolie Doolie commented on the Townsville Bulletin Facebook page.
“Such nice people. Arthur, Patch and Buddy will miss their little pats and talks with you. May your trip to heaven be on angel wings,” Betty Zemek wrote.
“Just so heartbreaking. We send our neighbours and their families our very deepest sympathy,” Leila Darveniza said.
“So sad, condolences to all,” Coral Warden wrote.
It’s believed the couple had been married for almost 60 years.
Burdekin MP Dale Last sent his deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the Grassos.
“Both victims of this incident were well regarded, and well respected, in our community and this incident has sent a shockwave through the entire Burdekin community,” Mr Last said. “While an investigation into the incident will identify the cause, I would ask all people who have a domestic elevator in their home, or in the homes of loved ones, to ensure that this equipment is serviced regularly and checked for safety.
“It is an absolute tragedy that a piece of equipment intended to help make life easier could contribute to the loss of two lives and we must take all steps to ensure this does not happen again.”
Police are preparing a report for the coroner and investigations are continuing by the Ayr Criminal Investigation Branch.
A Queensland Police Service spokesman said Workplace Health and Safety had been called to attend the scene.
JUST SO HEARTBREAKING. WE SEND OUR NEIGHBOURS AND THEIR FAMILIES OUR VERY DEEPEST SYMPATHY
LEILA DARVENIZA