Witnesses recounted a horrifying incident where a man caught fire in front of patients at a hospital in Far North Queensland. The unsettling event took place in the early hours of Thursday, February 26, at Cairns Hospital’s emergency department. Kelsey Meyers and her husband, who were present in the waiting area, were deeply affected by the traumatic scene.
Ms. Meyers vividly described the distressing experience, emphasizing the overwhelming smell and screams that filled the air. Despite efforts to shield herself, the sight of the man engulfed in flames left a lasting impact on her. The couple struggled to escape the smoke and stench, with one nurse sustaining burns while extinguishing the fire.
The harrowing incident continues to haunt Ms. Meyers, who expressed ongoing shock and distress. The Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service confirmed that a staff member was injured during the event and mentioned providing support and counseling for affected employees.
Following established safety protocols, staff swiftly relocated patients to a secure area, away from the distressing scene. An extensive review of the incident was conducted to enhance emergency response procedures. Due to patient confidentiality, detailed information was not disclosed at that time.
Cairns Hospital, situated at 165 The Esplanade, is a prominent healthcare facility with 531 beds and a round-the-clock emergency department. It serves as a key referral center for the region, offering various specialized medical services to a growing population.
For mental health assistance, individuals can contact the Samaritans helpline at 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, or visit their website at samaritans.org.
