Waterford is mourning the deaths of a family of four after a petrol bomb attack on their home in the Birchwood estate. Jayden English, aged nine, had undergone heart surgery just two weeks before the Waterford arson attack, while his parents Kim and Philip and his 12-year-old brother Callum also died.
What happened in the Waterford arson attack?
The fatal incident happened at the family home in Waterford city on Tuesday. Gardaí are investigating the attack, which involved a petrol bomb being thrown at the property.
Two other children, a 14-year-old girl and a six-year-old boy, remain in critical condition at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin. Their condition makes the case an ongoing emergency for the family and the wider Waterford community.
The deaths have prompted an outpouring of grief across the city, with neighbours, school staff, sports clubs and local organisations offering support to relatives affected by the tragedy.
Jayden’s recent heart surgery adds to family’s loss
Jayden had a history of serious health difficulties. He and his younger brother had previously featured on Bumbleance, Ireland’s dedicated children’s ambulance service, during journeys to Dublin for hospital appointments and surgery.
A 2020 social media post described the brothers as having been born with heart defects and sharing a chromosome disorder. Jayden was also pictured in a Bumbleance ambulance in 2021 while travelling to Crumlin.
Áine Phelan, a Waterford paramedic who previously worked with Bumbleance, recalled travelling with the English family. She described the children as brave and full of fun, and said the journeys had left her with fond memories of them.
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School and football community grieve for Callum and Jayden
The boys’ school has pledged to support pupils and staff while trying to provide as much stability as possible. Principal Caroline Douris said teachers would work to make school life feel normal for the remaining pupils, while keeping the two brothers at the centre of the school community’s thoughts.
Callum was also a member of Johnville FC. His coach, Alex O’Sullivan, remembered him as a hard-working, attentive boy with a bright smile. He said Callum’s parents were supportive members of the club and regularly offered their help.
Club activities are expected to be cancelled for several days as members process the loss and consider how best to support the children and families connected to the team.
Support services established in Waterford
A community hub has opened at the nearby Butler Community Centre, where local councillors are available to speak with residents. Six psychologists have also been assigned to local schools to help children and staff cope with the aftermath.
A prayer vigil was scheduled for 5pm on Wednesday at Sacred Heart Church in The Folly. Such gatherings are providing residents with an opportunity to remember the family and stand together during a deeply distressing period.
Fundraising campaign launched for funeral costs
A GoFundMe campaign organised by an extended family member had raised more than €26,000 by Wednesday. The funds will go to the children’s grandfather to help pay funeral expenses and assist the family in the weeks ahead.
The organiser said Philip, Kim, Callum and Jayden would remain loved and remembered, while asking supporters to keep the two surviving children in their thoughts.
- Money raised is intended to support funeral costs.
- The campaign will also help the family manage immediate expenses.
- Donations are being made through a fundraiser organised by the extended family.
Garda investigation remains ongoing
Gardaí are continuing their investigation into the attack, including searches and efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the petrol bomb incident. The case remains active, and confirmed information may change as investigators gather evidence.
The attack has renewed concern about the devastating consequences of drug-related intimidation and violence in residential communities. However, the precise motive and any responsibility for the incident should be treated as matters for the Garda investigation and courts.
What happens next?
The immediate priorities are supporting the two children in hospital, assisting the bereaved family and providing psychological care to pupils and residents. Gardaí will continue gathering evidence, while the community prepares to remember the family through vigils, funerals and local tributes.
For readers seeking reliable Breaking News Ireland coverage, updates should be checked through official Garda statements, hospital information where released, and trusted local sources. Unverified claims on social media should not be shared.
Frequently asked questions
Where did the attack happen?
The attack happened at a home in the Birchwood estate in Waterford city.
Who died in the incident?
Jayden English, aged nine, his brother Callum, aged 12, and their parents, Kim and Philip, died following the attack.
Are other children in hospital?
Yes. A 14-year-old girl and a six-year-old boy remain in critical condition at Children’s Health Ireland in Crumlin.
How is the Waterford community responding?
A community hub has been established, psychologists have been allocated to local schools, a prayer vigil has been arranged and a fundraiser is helping the extended family with funeral costs.
Conclusion
The Waterford arson attack has left a family devastated and a city confronting an unbearable loss. Jayden’s recent heart surgery, the deaths of his parents and brother, and the critical condition of two other children have deepened the shock felt across the community. As the Garda investigation continues, the clearest message from Waterford is one of compassion, practical support and remembrance.
