Police were called to a house fire early on Friday morning, which police are treating as suspicious, while homicide detectives continue to interview her partner.
A man was seen on CCTV walking to neighbours, emerging from the backyard cradling a three-year-old girl.
Erica Hay was found dead inside by police in the back bedroom.
Today, Hay’s lifelong friend, Amanda Broad, remembered the girl she’s known since primary school in Kalgoorlie.
“I’ll never get over her smile and her laugh, she was the goofiest person you’d ever meet,” Broad told 9News.
Hay’s friends say they feared something was wrong in the week before her death.
Broad told 9News Hay had reached out to her, texting her for help but the expectant mum forgot to text back.
Hay’s partner remains in police custody and the investigation into the house fire is ongoing.
The man has not been charged with any offences.
The three-year-old toddler is tonight in a stable condition in Hospital.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
