Mum mourns ‘angel’ killed in fire
The mother of a teenage girl who died in a fatal house fire on the outskirts of the Burnham Military Camp says “words cannot describe” her grief after the loss of her daughter.
Elizabeth “Lizzy” Marvin, 16, died after a fire ravaged the property on Toanui St, just outside the army barracks south of Christchurch, in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Three other people were injured in the blaze and taken to hospital.
In a statement yesterday, AnneMarie Armes said words could not describe the family’s grief and sense of loss at the passing of her daughter.
The Herald understands Armes remains in hospital following the fire.
“She was a beautiful and amazing young woman who was utterly selfless, kind, empathetic and loving to everyone around her.
“We will remember fondly her love of animals, especially horses.”
Armes said Lizzy “always has been, and always will be, our angel. I was proud to be her mum”.
Lizzy attended Rolleston College, not far from Burnham, as a Year 12 student.
“It will take Lizzy’s older brother Mikey and I a long time to learn how to continue life without her,” she said.
A school friend contacted the Herald to say Lizzy would be missed by everyone.
“She was a very bright person and she always had a smile on her face, even when she was struggling,” the friend said.
“But she loved her mum more than anything in the world.”
An investigation into the fire is continuing but, at this stage, authorities do not believe it occurred under suspicious circumstances.
A Givealittle page has been set up to help support her family. So far more than $12,000 has been donated.
“A special family has had a tragic loss and, in the spirit of community, we ask anyone who can to donate to help them,” the page, set up by a local service station worker, says.
“No matter how small the donation is, it all counts to make a difference in their lives.”