On Sunset worker Prajjwol ‘’PJ’’ Sama Shrestha dies after fire at Parramatta restaurant
A young barman who died from his injuries two weeks after a fire broke out at a Parramatta restaurant is being remembered as a “beautiful soul”.
NSW
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Staff at On Sunset at Parramatta have paid tribute to 24-year-old Prajjwol Sama Shrestha, known among his colleagues as “PJ”, who died from his injuries more than two weeks after an electrical switch ignited an explosion on June 21.
About 9.50pm on the Tuesday night, emergency services responded to the fire at the River Rd West restaurant, where Mr Shrestha worked as a bartender.
He suffered burns to about 30 per cent of his body after it was believed a cleaning product, which contained a flammable vapour, caught fire from an electrical issue with the dishwasher.
Ambulance crews treated him before he was placed into an induced coma and transported to Concord Hospital, where he died.
On Thursday afternoon, his “absolutely devastated” colleagues paid tribute to him.
On Sunset events manager Sou Farah praised Mr Shrestha as one of the family.
“He’s beautiful, such a lovely, lovely boy, (with an) infectious smile and laugh.
“He was very focused on work and would do anything for anyone there.
“He was part of the family — he was such a beautiful soul.’’
Mrs Farah said colleagues were reeling from news of his death on Thursday, more than a fortnight after the fire.
“All they were worried about was his health and safety,’’ she said.
“They didn’t care what was going on with the restaurant.
“We’re all just heartbroken. The team there is just like a family.’’
It is understood Mr Shrestha has family in Nepal and the restaurant is trying to assist to fly them to Australia.
The restaurant also took to Instagram to express their grief.
“It is with great sadness and heavy hearts we share the passing of our On Sunset family member PJ,’’ the post read.
“We are heartbroken from this loss. We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends and community.
“Fly high Angel, you will be missed forever.’’
Leana Dib wrote: “Rest in peace to one of the sweetest souls I’ve ever met.’’
The fire is not being treated as suspicious.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
SafeWork NSW has been notified.
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Originally published as On Sunset worker Prajjwol ‘’PJ’’ Sama Shrestha dies after fire at Parramatta restaurant
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