First photo of ‘superhero’ dad killed in house fire while trying to save 4-year-old son

A father who was killed in a house fire while trying to save his four-year-old son has been pictured for the first time.

Barry Mason, 45, died after running back into the burning house on Warrington Road in Wigan to save his four-year-old son Ethan. Ethan died in hospital two days after Tuesday’s fire after suffering 70% burns to his body and being placed in an induced coma.

Emergency services were called to the scene at around 2.30am on Sunday, April 14. Six people were reported to be in the family home at the time of the fire.

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In an emotional tribute today, Barry’s family described him as a “super hero” and “devoted father”. Sister-in-law Jessica wrote on Facebook: “Barry, we are heartbroken. Such a gentle giant and a devoted father till your last breath.

“Words will never describe how grateful we are, hold on tight there baby.”

Hundreds of people responded to the post to share their condolences with the family. One person wrote: “This absolutely broke my heart. I can’t stop thinking about your family. I am sorry for this heartache you are all going through xx”.

Another wrote: “Whistler. So sorry you are going through this. You are all in my thoughts. Much love.”

A third said: “I love you all. I sit here all the time, it breaks my heart. We are all here. I love you xx.”

Floral tributes were also left at the scene of the fire on Warrington Road in Wigan. A Gofundme page set up to support the family has so far raised more than £36,000. You can find the page here.

Following initial investigations into the fire, police do not believe suspicious circumstances are involved. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire, working with the police.

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

“Along with the previous death, this is a tragedy for the Wigan community and I know many people will be shocked by this heartbreaking news. I hope people will join us in sending our best wishes to everyone involved in this incident as they begin their journey of healing.

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

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