A Gloucestershire police officer who lost his wife and two young children in a devastating Boxing Day house fire has been overwhelmed by public support, with a fundraising appeal soaring past £267,000.
Community Rallies After Unimaginable Loss
PC Tom Shearman attempted a desperate rescue when fire engulfed the family home in Brimscombe, near Stroud, but was beaten back by the intensity of the flames. The blaze claimed the lives of his wife, Fionnghuala, known affectionately as Nu, their seven-year-old daughter Eve, and four-year-old son Ohner.
Friends of the family have said the devoted father has been left with nothing following the tragedy on 26 December. In response, an online fundraising page was swiftly established to help him begin the long process of rebuilding his life.
Fundraiser Smashes Target in Days
The campaign on GoFundMe has seen an extraordinary outpouring of generosity. By the morning of Wednesday, 31 December, more than 12,400 people had contributed, pushing the total to over £257,000. The figure has since climbed to an astonishing £267,624.
The fundraiser quickly surpassed its initial goal of £110,000, leading organisers to set a new target of £350,000 to provide substantial long-term support for the grieving officer.
Friend Victoria Armstrong, helping to coordinate the effort, expressed profound gratitude. "Thank you for your kindness, generosity and support at an incredibly difficult time," she said.
Investigation Into Fire's Cause Continues
According to police, the fire is believed to have started on the ground floor of the property. Investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause. Authorities have stated that the incident is not currently being treated as suspicious.
The local community in Gloucestershire and people from across the UK have been deeply moved by PC Shearman's loss, with the monumental sum raised reflecting a collective desire to offer practical help and solidarity in the wake of the heartbreaking event.
