Roman Clarkson fighting for life after fatal Mowbray shed fire

A “perfect, gorgeous and funny” Tasmanian boy is fighting for life after a fatal shed fire killed his young relative and shocked the state. HOW YOU CAN HELP

Roman Clarkson in hospital.

A “perfect, gorgeous and funny” Tasmanian boy is fighting for life after a fatal shed fire on Wednesday which shocked the state.

Roman Clarkson was flown to Royal Hobart Hospital and put into an induced coma after he was caught in a shed fire at Mowbray.

The four-year-old suffered full thickness burns on his arms and legs as well as other injuries as a result of the blaze.

Another young boy, 3, who is known to Roman, was not able to be saved and died at the scene.

Roman’s aunty, Shyla Gunton, said the incident had broken the family.

“Honestly it’s been very emotional and hard, none of us have really slept,” Miss Gunton said.

“I’ve literally been non-stop crying. My sister has been very strong. Honestly, I’m really proud of her.”

Roman’s parents Cassandra Gunton and Jerome Clarkson weren’t at the Verdun St residence on Wednesday when the fire occurred.

Roman Clarkson (right) with his cousins Harper and Hazel Gunton.

Cassandra arrived at the scene after she finished work to collect Roman and his sister Mavis, 1, and found her son being treated by emergency services.

The Launceston family have come to Hobart to support Roman, who is expected to come off a ventilator today and be transferred to the ICU.

Miss Gunton was glowing of her nephew, who is close with her daughters Hazel, 7, and Harper, 3.

“He’s amazing, perfect, gorgeous and funny,” she said.

“I remember the day he was born, watching him come into this world was one of the best days next to my own children. He’s my world.

“He’s full of energy and loves the world, you won’t find a sweeter, kinder soul anywhere else.

“He loves his friends and family and is a little show-off. He will do anything to make you laugh.”

“He’s constantly showing us his little games on his tablet saying ‘this is mum’. He literally calls Batman mum, it’s so funny.

Roman Clarkson (right) with his cousins Harper and Hazel Gunton.

“He loves Sonic the Hedgehog and his superheroes. He is a little superhero.”

Miss Gunton praised her sister and Mr Clarkson for the way they had raised Roman.

“Cassandra and Jerome are the best parents and have created the best little human on this planet.

“They’ve done well. I’m proud of what he’s become and what he’s going to become.”

Roman’s grandmother has created a GoFundMe page to help the family cover medical costs.

Tasmania Fire Service and forensic teams are continuing their investigation into the incident and a report will be prepared for the coroner.