Couple seriously injured in suspected e-bike blaze
Published: 12 Feb 2026
A man and woman have been seriously injured after jumping from a burning unit to escape a suspected e-bike fire at Auburn, in Sydney’s west.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) received numerous Triple Zero (000) calls about a blaze in Cumberland Road, just after 6.30 this morning.
Four fire crews responded and found a large pall of smoke, and flames issuing from the first floor.
Neighbours had also reported a series of explosions.
At the height of the fire, a man and woman jumped from a first floor balcony to escape the flames.
They were seriously injured and have been taken to hospital by NSW Ambulance.
Firefighters, wearing breathing apparatus, entered the building and extinguished the fire.
FRNSW investigators are now examining the scene and suspect an e-bike on charge may have caused the blaze.
FRNSW urges the public to take extra care when charging lithium-ion batteries, used to power e-bikes and other devices.
Never charge e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries near exits and don’t overcharge them or use batteries that are damaged or compromised.
Other tips include:
- Never sleep or leave home with your lithium-battery-powered devices charging
- Always use the power pack or cord that was supplied with the battery/device
- If lithium batteries are damaged or compromised, dispose of them properly
- Don’t throw them out in the rubbish, they can start garbage truck or rubbish tip fires when compacted
- Contact your local, approved recycling centre for disposal advice
- Don’t leave devices charging on beds, sofas or around highly flammable materials
- Try to charge devices, such as e-bikes, outside if possible
- Always buy reputable lithium-battery brands
- Beware of cheap, substandard lithium battery-powered devices
- Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing battery cells
- Store batteries and devices in a cool, dry area, away from combustible materials
- Install active smoke alarms in your home/garage
- Ensure you have a home evacuation plan in the event of fire
Updated: 12 Feb 2026 3:22pm