A Waterford community is plunged into mourning following tragedy of unprecedented scale

The first day of mourning is coming to a close in Waterford city, following a shocking arson attack which has left four people dead.

What will follow in the coming days is uncertain. For now, the community attempts to come to terms with a devastating tragedy.

The arson attack at Birchwood Estate which claimed the lives of two adults and two children this morning, has now advanced to an investigation of murder.

Two of the victims who were killed in the blaze have been named locally as husband and wife, Philip and Kim English.

Two of their children have also died, and two more of their children are currently admitted to Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) Crumlin, where they are receiving treatment for critical injuries.

Their family, friends and neighbours are now attempting to grapple with the weight of the tragedy.

Amidst this, a community centre just moments from the estate has been providing a safe space for locals to access supports.

Organisations and businesses have been providing groceries to the centre all day, while community groups and professional services have been on hand to help grieving neighbours in any way they can.

Amy Maguire, Manager of Butler Community Centre, said the centre has been transformed into a hub for those impacted by the incident.

“If all we can do is offer a place where people can escape this chaos and grieve together, then that’s what we’ll do” she said.

Ms. Maguire said there has been a steady stream of locals coming through the doors of the community centre throughout the day.

Others, she said, choose to remain at the estate.

“We have had quite a few members of the community in here today, but support is also being brought to the estate itself, and my car boot is open this evening and filled with tea, coffee and sandwiches for people who decide to stay here.

“It’s about the community today, and if people can’t come to the centre then we’ll bring it to them."

 Ms. Maguire said the Birchwood Estate is tightknit, and that residents are in shock.

“Everybody knows everybody here and the sense of community is very strong.

 “It’s devastating, it’s just a surreal situation. Everybody here will grieve, and we all have to grieve together.” 

Minister for Mental Health, Mary Butler TD, attended the community centre this evening to speak with locals affected by the incident.

She said there is a sense of “stillness, shock, trauma and disbelief.”

 “It’s the worst thing we’ve ever had to deal with in Waterford. It’s unbelievable” she said.

Further coverage throughout the week.