A couple who died in a house fire in Waterford, Ireland, along with two children have been named as Philip English and his partner Kim. Police have launched a murder inquiry into the blaze, which tore through their home in the Birchwood estate area shortly after 5am on Tuesday, 13 October 2026. Two other children are in a critical condition in hospital.
Murder investigation launched
An Garda Síochána have commenced a murder investigation into the arson attack and fatal house fire. A spokesperson confirmed two adults, one male and one female, and two of their children are deceased. Two other children have been removed from the scene and are receiving hospital treatment for critical injuries.
An incident room has been set up at Waterford Garda Station, and a senior investigating officer has been appointed. Family liaison officers have also been appointed. Gardaí are appealing to anyone who was in the vicinity of Birch Avenue, Birchwood, between 4.30am and 5.30am on Tuesday, 13 October, or who may have dashcam footage, to contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.
Community in shock
Chief Superintendent Anthony Pettit, divisional head for the An Garda Síochána Waterford/Kilkenny/Carlow division, said the house was attacked by a person or persons unknown, and that the fire was started deliberately. He said: "An Garda Síochána believe that the house was attacked by a person or persons unknown, and that the fire was started deliberately."
Taoiseach Micheál Martin described the tragic outcome as a "deeply disturbing situation". He added: "Our thoughts and prayers are with anybody who has lost their lives and all who are affected."
Father Gerard Chestnutt, parish priest at Sacred Heart Church at The Folly in Waterford, said it was a "day of immense sadness". He said: "People are devastated, in particular here in the Birchwood estate, because the family are well known."
Support for residents
Waterford Fire Service said several fire crews went to the scene from surrounding stations and found the "well-developed fire" at the house. A spokesperson said: "Firefighting operations commenced immediately, and a number of casualties were removed from the two storey house. The fire was extinguished and the scene handed over to An Garda Síochána."
Butler Community Centre in St John's Park in Waterford City has been commissioned by Waterford City and County Council as a support hub, with professional services and refreshments available for those affected by the fire.
