‘Beautiful soul’: Woman killed in lightning strike identified as Rosanna Hashem

The woman killed in a lightning strike in Sydney’s southwest has been remembered as a “beautiful soul” and beloved mother of four.

The woman killed in a “freak bolt” lightning strike in Sydney’s southwest has been identified as beloved mother of four and business owner Rosanna Hashem.

Ms Hashem was killed after being hit by shrapnel from a tree that exploded after it was struck by lightning about 5.30pm at a home on Old Razorback Rd in Cawdor.

The woman was treated by paramedics but could not be revived.

A woman killed in a lightning strike in Sydney's southwest has been identified as Rosanna Hashem. Picture: Facebook

Tributes for Ms Hashem, who founded The Cat Groomery in 2020, remembered the Sydney woman as a “a beloved mother of four boys, a devoted wife, a cherished sister, and a dear friend to so many”.

“Over the past five years, she and her team poured their hearts into building a warm and trusted community, and her absence leaves an immeasurable void,” an online statement from The Cat Groomery read.

“Rose’s care, laughter, and kindness brought people together, creating a family — one that will forever carry her memory forward.”

Tributes to the Sydney woman began pouring in online, recalling the woman’s dedication to cats and dogs over the years.

“She was one of the loveliest people and our little guy, Tippy, was always so safe and cared for with her,” a former client wrote.

“We took our dogs there for years until they changed to cats,” said another.

“She was always so lovely.”
Another client said Ms Hashem “had a beautiful soul and will be forever missed”.

The business owner is remembered as being a kind person.

Ms Hashem launched her business after years working in sales, only to discover her love for grooming animals.

“I love animals and have always had dogs growing up, so it seemed second nature to care for something that needed help,” Ms Hashem wrote in 2022.

“I felt it was also a more deep and meaningful job in that it gave me mental stimulation and gave me space to step away from being a ‘mum’ and become a strong, independent woman who can provide for her kids.”

NSW Police confirmed a second woman had been struck and treated by paramedics and taken to Liverpool Hospital, where she remains in a serious but stable condition.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.