'Hold your babies tighter': Family's heartbreak as dad and son die days apart

The heartbroken family of a dad and son who died days apart said they're "in awe" of the support they've received since the tragedy.

Barry Mason, 45, died in a house fire on Warrington Road in Wigan on Sunday, April 14, after running back inside the burning house to save his son, Ethan. The four-year-old died two days later in hospital after suffering 70% burns to his body from the fire.

The cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed but police do not believe there are any suspicious circumstances involved. More than £54,000 has now been raised via a Gofundme page to help support the family at this devastating time.

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In response to the donations, Ethan's auntie Jessica said on Facebook: "Look what you all have done. I’m absolutely just in awe of you all.

"Nothing I can say can thank you all enough for surrounding my sister with love and support during such horrific circumstances. Thank you, for wrapping your arms around us all."

In a message on the Gofundme page, Jessica urged parents to "hold your babies a little tighter because you just never know."

Hundreds of people have paid tribute to Barry and Ethan, and shared their condolences with the family. Floral tributes have also been left at the scene of the fire.

One woman wrote: "A hero and his angel...forever together. Looking down on you all. Heartbreaking. I've messaged you lovely if I can help in any way xx."

A second said: "RIP Barry and Ethan. What a hero his daddy was trying his hardest to save his son. So sad thinking of you all xxx. Sending strength your way."

Another wrote: "My heart absolutely aches for your whole family. What a beautiful little boy and what a hero his daddy is."

A fourth wrote: "So heartbreaking words cannot describe, thinking of you all. Life is so cruel xx."

Detective Inspector Lee Gridley, from GMP’s Wigan district, said: “This is a devastating incident and all of our thoughts are with the family of this young boy, who had his entire life ahead of him.

“Together with the earlier death, this is a tragedy for the Wigan community and I know that many people will be shocked by this heartbreaking news. I hope people will join us in sending their absolute best wishes to all those involved in this incident, as they begin their journey in the healing process.

“While we are not treating the incident as suspicious, if anyone has any information they believe is important, please do get in touch with us. You can do this by calling police on 101, quoting log 393 of 14/04/2024.”

You can find the family's Gofundme page here.

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