Key facts
- Four members of the English family died in an arson attack in Waterford.
- Two children were severely injured and are in critical condition.
- Gardaí are treating the incident as a multiple murder and arson attack.
- Police believe the attack is linked to organized crime and drugs-related intimidation.
- Searches were conducted and vehicles and electronic devices seized.
- No arrests have been made.
Irish police are conducting extensive searches and have seized vehicles and electronic devices as part of an investigation into a fatal arson attack that killed four members of the same family in Waterford. The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday when six members of the English family were sleeping in their home. It is believed an incendiary device, likely a petrol bomb, was used to start the blaze.
Two children who were severely injured in the fire remain in a critical condition in a Dublin hospital. The community has been offering support to the grieving relatives, with local centres providing drop-in services and counseling. Neighbours have laid flowers at the scene, which remains preserved by gardaí.
Detectives are treating the case as a multiple murder and arson attack and are investigating a potential link to organized crime and drugs-related intimidation. Searches were carried out on Tuesday evening at a number of premises, including those of two significant criminal figures in the city. No arrests have been made yet.
Callum, a 12-year-old boy who played for local football club Johnville FC, was among the victims. His coach described him as a talented player and a "lovely kid" with a "great smile". The club and the wider community have expressed their devastation at the tragedy. A vigil is scheduled to be held at Sacred Heart Church.