Scooter battery link to fatal fire at retirement home

Grace Fielden, 81, escaped the inferno but her 83-year-old husband Trevor died at the scene.

Mrs Fielden was taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital with minor injuries.

Fire victim Trevor Fielden (left) was a member of the Prospect Broadview Bowling Club in Adelaide. (HANDOUT/PROSPECT BROADVIEW BOWLING CLUB)

Tony Randello, chief executive of Crestview operator Aveo, said early reports from first responders indicated the fire was caused by a mobility scooter battery that was charging overnight.

His thoughts were with the victim's family, he said in a statement on Tuesday.

Two adjoining villas in the unit block were damaged by the blaze but the residents were not home at the time.

"Aveo is supporting the residents of those villas to make alternative accommodation arrangements," Mr Randello said.

Mr Fielden was a respected and longstanding member of the Prospect Broadview Bowling Club.

"It is with a heavy heart we acknowledge the sudden passing of Trevor Fielden," the club's executive Kerry Johnston wrote on Facebook.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Grace as she recovers in hospital. Condolences to Trevor's family and friends.

"Trevor you will be missed by all at PBBC."

An elderly man has died in a house fire at — South Australia Police (@SAPoliceNews) #Hillcrest overnight https://t.co/EL8tLctL8C pic.twitter.com/8hcbawwTGKJanuary 15, 2024

Twenty-four firefighters and five vehicles worked for an hour to extinguish the fire and prevent it spreading to additional buildings.

The Metropolitan Fire Service estimates $250,000 damage was caused to the property.

Fire investigators are looking into the cause of the fire, which has been deemed non-suspicious.

"We extend our heartfelt thanks to all emergency services personnel for their swift response," Mr Randello said.

"Aveo's community team are providing counselling and support to residents, and the families of those impacted by this incident."