Two young boys who died in suspected arson attack in Waterford named locally
Gardaí in Waterford are continuing to appeal for witnesses in connection with the incident
The two boys who died in a suspected arson attack in Waterford city yesterday have been named locally.
Callum English (12) and Jayden English (9) both died in the incident which occurred at Birchwood shortly after 5am on Tuesday morning.
Their parents, Phillip and Kim English, also died, whilst two of their siblings remain in a critical condition in hospital.
Local soccer club Johnville FC have paid tribute to Callum, who was a popular young player at the club.
In a post on Facebook last night, a club spokesperson said: “Everyone at Johnville FC is absolutely heartbroken and devastated by the tragic events in Waterford.
“Kim and Philip were familiar and friendly faces around our club, always there supporting Callum at his matches.
“It is incredibly difficult to comprehend that a family we knew so well has been taken from us in such tragic circumstances.
“Callum was part of the Johnville FC family for five years, starting out in our academy before progressing through our underage teams from U11 to U14.
“He was part of our U11 team that proudly won the league two seasons ago. All his team mates and coaches are absolutely devastated by the news, this pain of this tragedy will take a long time to heal.”
Over €25,000 has already been raised through a GoFundMe page to help the grieving family cover the costs of laying their loved ones to rest.
The page description reads: “With the heaviest of hearts, we are reaching out to ask for help following an unimaginable tragedy that has devastated our family.
“There are no words to describe the heartbreak of losing four precious lives in such devastating circumstances.
“As our family tries to come to terms with this heartbreaking loss, we are faced with the task of arranging four funerals and giving Phillip, Kim, Callum and Jayden the loving farewells they deserve.”
The family outlined their struggle in coming to terms with the tragedy that has unfolded.
“Tragically, two other siblings are also currently in hospital in critical condition.
“Our family is enduring an incredibly difficult time, holding on to hope for those still fighting while trying to process the devastating loss of our loved ones.
“We have created this GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden of funeral expenses during this heartbreaking time.
“All money raised will go directly to Paddy, the children’s grandfather, to help cover these costs and support the family through the days and weeks ahead.”
They acknowledged that times are difficult financially and said they would appreciate any donations, no matter how small.
“We know times are difficult for everyone, and we are truly grateful for any support people can offer.
“No donation is too small, and if you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much to us.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who donates, shares this page or keeps our family in their thoughts.”
The family concluded by paying tribute to the loved ones, who they said would never be forgotten.
“Your kindness and generosity mean more than words can express.
“Phillip, Kim, Callum and Jayden will forever be loved and never forgotten. We pray for strength for our family and hold on to hope for the two siblings still in hospital.
“May they rest in eternal peace. Forever in our hearts.”
Gardaí have since launched a murder investigation into the incident, which is suspected to have been an arson attack.
They are continuing to appeal to any person who has information in relation to the incident to come forward.
In particular, Gardaí are looking to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Birch Avenue, Birchwood, between 4:30am and 5:30am yesterday morning.
They are also appealing to anyone who was driving in the vicinity of Birchwood, or the adjoining roads, between 4.30am and 5.30am yesterday, who may have dashcam footage or images to make such footage available to investigating Gardaí.
The investigation team can be contacted at the incident room at Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.