The death toll from the devastating arson attack in Waterford has risen to five, following the passing of six-year-old Elliot English. The young boy died at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, weeks after the fire that claimed the lives of his parents, Kim and Philip English, and his two brothers, 12-year-old Callum and nine-year-old Jayden. RTE reported that the family confirmed the news with “profound sadness,” marking another tragic chapter in an event that has left the Birchwood estate and the wider community in a state of mourning.
A Family Lost in the Birchwood Estate
The tragedy unfolded in the early hours of 13 October when an incendiary device, believed to be a petrol bomb, was used to set the family home alight while the occupants slept. Emergency services arrived at the scene to find a well-developed fire. While four family members perished in the immediate aftermath, two other children were rescued from the property and rushed to Dublin for emergency care. The Liberal reported that one of those children remains in hospital receiving intensive care, with the family asking for continued thoughts and prayers for his recovery.
The impact of the loss has been felt deeply across Waterford. During the joint funeral mass for Kim, Philip, Callum, and Jayden last month, mourners heard tributes describing the family as “the salt of the earth and lights in this community” who had done “no wrong to anybody.” Flowers, toys, and handwritten tributes remain outside the damaged home, serving as a somber testament to a family that was described by neighbors as ordinary and well-liked.
Gardaí Arrest Six People Following Multiple Murder and Arson
Gardaí are treating the incident as a case of multiple murder and arson, and the investigation remains active. To date, six people have been arrested in connection with the attack. Among those, 31-year-old Jessica Dalton, of Waterford city, and 21-year-old Cian Stacey, of no fixed abode, have been charged with criminal damage and assault causing serious harm. Both individuals remain in custody and are scheduled to appear before the Waterford District Court again on 17 November via video link.
Four other individuals—a man in his 50s, two women in their 30s, and a man in his 20s—were also arrested last month under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act on suspicion of facilitating a criminal organization. These four were subsequently released without charge, though Gardaí have confirmed that files are being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. Authorities continue to appeal for information from anyone who may have knowledge of those responsible for the attack.
The Family’s Appeal for Privacy
In the wake of Elliot’s death, the English family has reiterated their need for space as they cope with an "unimaginable loss." A statement released by the family acknowledged the significant public interest in the case but emphasized their right to grieve in private. They extended their gratitude to the community for the kindness and compassion shown since the fire, while asking that the privacy, dignity, and peace of the surviving relatives and friends be respected during this overwhelming period.
As the court proceedings for the two defendants continue on 17 November, the community continues to offer support to the family and friends grieving the victims of the October arson attack.
