Two victims of today’s fatal house fire in Birchwood housing estate have been named locally as husband and wife Philip and Kim English.
The couple were killed alongside two of their children after a fire broke out at their home shortly after 5.00am this morning (13 October).
Tributes have been paid from across Waterford to the couple who were very well-known locally. Two more of their children are currently being treated at Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) Crumlin for critical injuries.
Gardaí confirmed earlier today that a murder investigation into the attack has been launched.
Speaking at a press conference earlier today outside Waterford Garda Station, Chief Superintendent Anthony Petit said: “My thoughts, and the thoughts of all members of An Garda Síochána and the community are with the extended family at this time.”
In a statement, a spokesperson for Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre, Kilcohan, said they are “shocked and deeply saddened” to hear of today’s tragedy.
“Kim, Phillip, and their children were well known and much loved within our community. Their children attended our childcare service, Tiptoes Community Childcare Centre, over the years, and the family was known to many of our staff, children, and families,” the spokesperson said.
They added: “Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with all those affected by this devastating loss. During this very difficult time, Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre is open to offer support to members of the community. We will be holding a dedicated drop-in support service for families and children who have been impacted by this tragedy. Anyone who would like a listening ear, support, or simply a place to be among others is welcome to call in.”
Sinn Féin Councillor John Hearne paid tribute to the couple and their children, stating: “Everyone is shocked by the murder of Kim and Philip English and their two children. I knew Philip and his father well. I went to Birchwood today to stand in solidarity with the Community and the extended English family and friends. We pray the injured children recover as soon as possible. But we know everything has changed forever.”
Cllr Hearne added: “People are shocked, stunned and angry, and rightly so, but should do nothing to add to the upset of the family. But we need to catch the people who murdered innocent people last night.”
PRESIDENT OF IRELAND PAYS TRIBUTE
President of Ireland Catherine Connolly has expressed her deep condolences to the family and friends of Philip and Kim English and their children.
“As President of Ireland, may I join with all of those who have expressed such shock following the horrific killing of a couple and two of their children this morning in Waterford and express my deepest condolences to the family and friends of those who have lost their lives,” President Connolly said.
She added: “This was an appalling attack and all of our thoughts are with the two children currently in critical condition in hospital for a full recovery and with the first responders who have been on the scene and treating them. I know that An Garda Síochána have already commenced a murder investigation and I urge anyone with any information to bring it to their attention.”
CONDOLENCES FROM JUSTICE MINISTER
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan said in a statement that he “strongly condemns” the harrowing attack which resulted in the loss of four lives, including two children.
“I want to express my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the bereaved. My thoughts are also with the two young children in hospital. This shocking event has had a very significant impact not just on the people of Waterford but on the whole country,” Minister O’ Callaghan commented.
He added: “There is no place in a civilised society for such a heinous act of violence.I have spoken with the Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly, who has assured me that a murder investigation, supported by the National Bureau for Criminal Investigation, is underway.
“I am confident those responsible for this brutal and heinous act will be brought to justice to face the full rigour of the law. I join An Garda Síochána in appealing to anyone with information to come forward,” the Minister concluded.
VIGIL
A vigil to pray for the couple and their children has been organised for tomorrow, Wednesday 14 October, at 5.00pm at Sacred Heart Church, The Folly.
All members of the public are invited to attend, with a spokesperson for the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore commenting: “We invite the people of Waterford to come together in prayer for those who have lost their lives, their grieving families and loved ones, and all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”
APPEAL FOR WITNESSES
Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have been in the area this morning and witnessed the incident to come forward.
A Garda spokesperson said: “Gardaí are also appealing to anyone who was driving in the vicinity of Birchwood, or the adjoining roads, between 4.30am and 5.30am this morning, 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,” the spokesperson said.
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