The two young children who died in a suspected arson at a home in Waterford this morning have been named,
The deceased children have been named as the couple’s sons, 12-year-old Callum and nine-year-old Jayden.
The couple, Kim English and Philip English, have two other children who were in the house at the time. They remain in a critical condition at CHI Crumlin tonight.
They are understood to be a boy and a girl aged 14 and six.
A murder investigation is underway after the suspected arson, which happened at around 5am this morning.
Johnville FC football club said that the community has been plunged into mourning, as they shared a picture of Callum, who had played for the club for the past five years.
“Kim and Philip were familiar and friendly faces around our club, always supporting Callum at his matches. It is incredibly difficult to comprehend that a family we knew so well has been taken from us in such tragic circumstances,” the club wrote.
“Callum was part of the Johnville FC family for five years, starting out in our academy before progressing through our underage teams from U11 to U14. He was part of our U11 team that proudly won the league two seasons ago.
“All his team mates and coaches are absolutely devastated by the news, this pain of this tragedy will take a long time to heal,” said the club.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all the family, their relatives and friends following this unimaginable loss. We are also thinking of those who are still fighting for their lives in hospital and we sincerely hope they can pull through.”
The club appealed to anyone who may have information that could assist Gardai with their investigation.
“RIP Callum,” said one person under the post. “Fond memories of reffing you in your first year of school football. Always played with a smile on your face.”
A coach added: “Rest in peace Callum. It was great to coach such a lovely kid the past 3 seasons. Absolutely heartbreaking. RIP Kim, Philip, Jayden and Callum.”
“Any information, no matter how small it may seem, could be important,” they said.
Friends of Kim English told Crime World that the mother had been afraid of walking her children to school prior to the attack, and that she had been living “in fear of her life.”
A Go Fund Me has now been set up to help pay towards funeral costs for the victims. The page, organised by a family member, says that the family is going through an “unimaginable time.”
Some €13,000 has so far been raised.
“There are no words to describe the heartbreak of losing four precious lives in such devastating circumstances.”
“As our family tries to come to terms with this heartbreaking loss, we are faced with the task of arranging four funerals and giving Philip, Kim, Callum and Jayden the loving farewells they deserve.”
“We know times are difficult for everyone, and we are truly grateful for any support people can offer.”