BREAKING NEWS: Two arrested in connection with Birchwood murders as Garda investigation continues
The scene at Birchwood Estate. Photo: Joe Evans
Gardaí investigating the murders following the fire at Birch Avenue in the Birchwood estate shortly after 5am on Tuesday, October 13, confirmed on Thursday afternoon that a man in his 20s and a woman in her 30s had been arrested.
The pair were arrested for alleged offences under Section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 in connection with the arson attack and the deaths of four people at the property.
Both suspects are currently being detained under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act 2007 at a Garda station in the Garda Eastern Region.
The fire claimed the lives of Philip English, his wife Kim, and their two sons, Callum (12) and Jayden (8), in what Gardaí have described as a murderous arson attack.
Meanwhile, the two children who survived the blaze and were transferred to Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) at Crumlin remain in a critical condition as they continue to receive specialist treatment for their injuries.
The house at Birch Avenue remains sealed off as a crime scene and is still undergoing a detailed technical examination by members of the Garda Technical Bureau.
Gardaí also confirmed that post-mortem examinations on the four deceased victims have now been completed. However, the results are not being released at this time for operational reasons.
Family Liaison Officers continue to support and engage with the bereaved family, who have been kept informed of developments in the investigation.
In a renewed appeal for information, Gardaí urged anyone who may have information about the attack to come forward.
Investigators are particularly anxious to hear from anyone who was in the Birch Avenue area between 4.30am and 5.30am on Tuesday morning, October 13.
They are also appealing to motorists who were travelling in the Birchwood area or on adjoining roads during that time and who may have dashcam footage or images that could assist the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room at Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
The investigation into one of the most devastating tragedies ever experienced in Waterford remains ongoing.
