An Garda Síochána have launched a murder investigation after four people, including two children, were killed in an arson attack on a domestic residence in Waterford City early this morning, Tuesday, October 13.
Just after 7 am, Gardaí in Waterford confirmed they and other emergency services were at the scene of a fire at a domestic residence in Waterford City.
They initially suspected that there would be a number of fatalities as a result of the fire.
In a subsequent update, Gardaí confirmed that two adults, one male and one female, and two children are deceased. The Irish Mirror reports that the two deceased adults have been named locally as Philip English and his partner Kim English.
Two other children were removed from the scene and were hospitalized with critical injuries.
An Garda Siochána appealed for information from anyone who may have been in the vicinity of Birch Avenue, Birchwood, Waterford City, in the early hours of Tuesday to contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
In another update, An Garda Síochána announced that they have commenced a murder investigation into "the arson attack and fatal house fire."
Gardaí are due to issue another statement this afternoon.
Mayor of Waterford, Cllr. Liam Brazil, and Mayor of Waterford Metropolitan District, Cllr. Lola O’Sullivan, said in a joint statement that they are "devastated and heartbroken by the tragedy that unfolded in Birch Avenue this morning."
The duo said: "Our sympathies, thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of those who lost their lives so tragically in the fatal house fire.
"No one is untouched by this event, and we would appeal to neighbours, friends and the wider community to be there for each other during this harrowing time.
Our thoughts are also with the Emergency Services and First Responders who attended the deeply disturbing scene.
"We would encourage anyone who has been affected to visit the Community Support Hub in St. John’s Park. Professional services, refreshments, and facilities are available to all.
"We appeal to the public to give An Garda Síochána the time and space needed to fully investigate this incident."
Ireland's Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan told reporters in Dublin: "It's a harrowing event that has had a significant impact on not just the people of Waterford, but the whole country. I want to extend my condolences to the family and friends of the bereaved," he said.
"I have also spoken to the Garda Commissioner; he's informed me that this is now a murder investigation.
"The people responsible for this will be brought to justice. Gardaí are investigating this vigorously. Anyone with information should bring information that they have to the attention of An Garda Síochána."