A woman has suffered lifelong burns after her house was allegedly set on fire by another woman.
Sky Yates, 32, was at her home in Griffith, central western NSW, on the afternoon of September 14 when it was allegedly set on fire by 34-year-old Abbey Watkins.
Mrs Yates suffered serious burns to her body and was cared for by a neighbor until ambulances arrived.
The fire was extinguished, with only minor damage to the house, but Mrs Yates was rushed to Griffith Base Hospital with life-threatening injuries.
She was then airlifted to Sydney’s Concord Hospital and placed in an induced coma, where she remains.
Watkins was arrested days later and charged with causing wounding/grievous bodily harm to a person with intent to murder, destroying/damaging a building by fire with intent to murder (DV), and violating the bail.
She was brought to court on September 14 where bail was refused.
Watkins is due back in court on November 7.
Sky Yates, 32, (pictured) was at her home in Griffith, central western NSW, on the afternoon of September 14 when it was allegedly set on fire by 34-year-old Abbey Watkins
Ms Yates’ relatives say she suffered ‘devastating injuries, both physical and emotional’.
“Sky Yates has lived in Griffith all her life. Her family has lived in the community for generations and is a beloved member of the community,” said a friend who launched an initiative GoFundMe for Mrs. Yates, said.
‘Sky is one of the funniest and warmest people you will ever meet and leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets.’
Ms Yates will need to remain in Sydney for the foreseeable future due to the extent of her injuries.
“Her beautiful family have been by her side ever since and have put their lives on hold to support their beloved Skyzie in any way they can,” the friend said.
Donations will go towards Mrs Yate’s medical costs and loss of income.
The fundraiser has raised more than $26,000 so far.
