Johnville FC pay tribute to young Waterford footballer killed alongside parents and brother
Callum English, who died alongside his parents and brother Jayden.
Johnville FC, the Waterford city football club of which young Callum English was a proud and enthusiastic member, issued a statement this evening expressing their devastation and shock.
Callum, alongside his mum and dad, Kim and Philip English, and his brother Jayden were killed in a horrific fire at their home in the early hours of this morning, Tuesday, October 13, at Birchwood in the city.
Two of his siblings remain in a critical condition in Children's Health Ireland Crumlin hospital following the blaze.
An Garda Síochána believe that the Birch Avenue house was attacked by a person or persons unknown and that the fire was started deliberately.
"Everyone at Johnville FC is absolutely heartbroken and devastated by the tragic events in Waterford," the football club said.
"Kim and Philip were familiar and friendly faces around our club, always there 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."
Callum was part of the Johnville FC family for five years, starting out in the club's academy before progressing through its underage teams from U11 to U14. He was part of their 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," the statement continued.
"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.
"We would appeal to anyone who may have information that could assist Gardaí with their investigation to please come forward and contact the authorities. Any information, no matter how small it may seem, could be important."
The statement concluded: "Football is about so much more than what happens on the pitch. It is about people, friendships and community. Today, our Johnville family and the surrounding community is hurting alongside everyone who knew and loved this family.
"From everyone at Johnville FC, we send our love and deepest condolences to all those affected. You will always be part of our club family.
"RIP Kim, Phillip, Jayden and Callum"
