A devastating fire has destroyed a multimillion-dollar Airbnb on the Henley Beach esplanade, leaving owner Leon Leondiou and his family heartbroken.
Emergency services rushed to the scene just before 1pm on Sunday, as flames tore through the two-storey property south of Henley Square, sending thick black smoke across the beachside suburb.
Leondiou was taken to hospital for smoke inhalation after reportedly running back inside with a fire extinguisher in a desperate attempt to save his home. He told 7News he had been placing cardboard boxes into his fireplace when he heard a sudden explosion.
Around a dozen firefighters battled the blaze for four hours before bringing it under control. The MFS said the rear of the building was “at the point of collapsing,” but crews managed to protect neighbouring properties.
Several residents and two police officers were also treated for smoke inhalation. Seaview Road was closed as emergency services monitor flare-ups and assess the extensive damage.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Source: The Advertiser.
