Jack Bajric, a 16-year-old boy from Cessnock, was killed in a house fire that broke out at around 10 pm on Saturda.
Paramedics were unable to save him despite efforts by firefighters to get him out.
Jack was described as a “happy, bubbly boy” by his friends.
According to a family member, Jack was a severely autistic boy who was known for his large and happy smile.
He was reportedly sleeping in the lounge room when a pillow got caught on fire.
Jack’s sister, Tylah, was able to escape with the help of a 14-year-old friend.
Jack’s mother then arrived at the scene.
Fire and Rescue NSW’s James Downey said the incident was chaotic.
Despite the efforts of the public to help, the fire had already consumed a lot of the house.