New Plymouth Man Dies in Heroic Attempt to Save Nephew During House Fire

On July 23, a tragic house fire in New Plymouth claimed the life of Nigel Tyler, a man described by friends as selfless and deeply caring. Tyler, who had managed to escape the flames with his young nephew, made the ultimate sacrifice by re-entering the burning home to retrieve his ute keys in a desperate bid to get the boy to the hospital.

Witnesses recounted the harrowing scene, with one neighbor describing the heart-wrenching cries of the severely burned child, who called out for his uncle still trapped inside the fire.

Tyler's nephew was rushed to the hospital for treatment, though his current condition remains undisclosed. The fire, which occurred at a home on Oranga St, has so far left no confirmed cause, with police stating they are still investigating the circumstances that led to the blaze.

Stephen Dravitzki, a close friend and former colleague of Tyler, shared a touching tribute to the man he described as "the kindest person you could meet." Dravitzki recalled how Tyler had once missed the chance to say goodbye to his wife after her passing in 2016, a moment that left a lasting impact on both men.

"He would do anything for anyone," Dravitzki said. "Nigel was one of those people who put others before himself."

Tyler's funeral is expected to draw a large number of friends and colleagues, reflecting the deep respect and admiration he inspired in those who knew him.

As the community mourns the loss of a beloved individual, the story of Nigel Tyler's final act of heroism serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of human compassion in the face of tragedy.