Hero father who died trying to save his daughters identified
Tributes have flowed for the 40-year-old man who tragically died while trying to save his daughters after their pram rolled onto train tracks in Sydney’s south.
Anand Runwal, who worked at an IT firm in North Sydney, and his two-year-old daughter were killed during the heroic rescue.
Mr Runwal, his wife Poonam and their two children had only lived in Sydney for nine months, after relocating from India last October.
A fundraiser has been set up for the grieving family who are facing “unimaginable grief and trauma” following the tragic incident.
“The father’s selfless act of bravery has left the local community in shock and mourning. The family, part of the local Indian community, is now facing unimaginable grief and trauma. The 39-year-old mother witnessed the horrifying incident and is struggling to cope with the loss of her husband and daughter,” the fundraiser read.
“In the wake of this devastating accident, we are reaching out to the community for support. The funds raised will go directly to the family to cover funeral costs, medical expenses for the surviving daughter, and ongoing support for the grieving mother.”
“This is an incredibly difficult time for them, and any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference.”
Sreyas Gopalakrishnan Thottarath, a school friend of Mr Runwal, expressed his condolences in a tribute on social media, writing, “Dear friends, it is with a heavy heart that I share the tragic news of the untimely passing of Anand Runwal ( From 1999 Batch) and his daughter.”
“Our deepest condolences go out to their family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.May their souls rest in peace.”
NSW Police Superintendent Paul Dunstan was one of many who praised Runwal’s "brave and heroic" act, saying, “He’s gone into parent mode and tried to save his two young daughters that have fallen onto the tracks and in doing so it’s cost his life, but it’s an incredibly brave and heroic act."
Image credits: Facebook