“I’M LOST FOR WORDS” — SON OF WATERFORD FIRE VICTIM SPEAKS OUT AFTER FATHER, STEPMOTHER AND TWO YOUNG BOYS D!E
“I’M LOST FOR WORDS” — SON OF WATERFORD FIRE VICTIM SPEAKS OUT AFTER FATHER, STEPMOTHER AND TWO YOUNG BOYS DIE
John James English has spoken of his devastation after his father, Philip English, his wife Kim and two children died in a suspected deliberate house fire in Waterford. Two other children from the family remain in critical condition in hospital.
WATERFORD, IRELAND — A family is grieving an unimaginable loss after four of its members died in a devastating house fire in the Birchwood area of Waterford City on Tuesday morning, October 13, 2026.
Philip English, his wife Kim, and their sons Callum, 12, and Jayden, nine, died after a fire broke out at their home shortly after 5 a.m. Two other children were rescued and taken to Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin in Dublin, where they were reported to be in critical condition.
As the investigation continues, Philip’s adult son from a previous relationship, John James English, has spoken publicly about the devastating news and the loss of his family.
Speaking to The Irish Sun, the 33-year-old described himself as heartbroken and struggling to comprehend what had happened.
“I’m devastated, it’s heartbreaking and cruel,” he said, adding that the children had their whole lives ahead of them. He also expressed hope that those responsible would face the full force of the law.
A FAMILY REMEMBERED WITH LOVE
The deaths of Philip, Kim and the two boys have sent shockwaves through their community.
John James said he was left in a state of shock after receiving the news. His words reflected the pain of losing his father and two younger siblings in circumstances that authorities are investigating as a suspected deliberate attack.
Local representatives have also paid tribute to the family. Waterford councillors described the tragedy as devastating and urged neighbours and residents to support one another during the difficult days ahead.
Callum was known to members of Johnville FC, where he had played for five years, progressing through the club’s academy and underage teams. The club said its players and coaches were devastated by the loss and extended its condolences to the family and everyone affected.
A FIRE THAT HAS BECOME A MURDER INVESTIGATION
An Garda Síochána confirmed that a murder investigation had been launched after officers concluded that the fire was started deliberately by an unknown person or persons.
The house on Birch Avenue has been declared a crime scene, with forensic examinations and further enquiries underway. Gardaí have also appealed to anyone who was in the area between 4:30 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. on October 13 to come forward with information, including any relevant dashcam footage.
Media reports have suggested that the family had experienced previous intimidation and that investigators are examining a possible connection to criminal activity. However, the investigation remains ongoing, and no one should be treated as responsible unless established through the legal process.
TWO CHILDREN REMAIN IN CRITICAL CONDITION
While four family members have died, the condition of the two surviving children remains a major concern.
The children were taken to hospital following the fire and were reported to be critically ill. Their situation has added to the anguish surrounding the tragedy, with relatives, friends and community members hoping for their recovery.
A fundraising appeal has also been established to help the extended family with funeral expenses and the financial burden that follows such a sudden loss. A prayer vigil was announced in Waterford as the community came together to remember those who died and support the bereaved family.
“NOTHING WILL BRING THEM BACK”
For John James English, the loss is deeply personal. His father and younger brothers are gone, and the family is left to face the aftermath of a tragedy that has devastated their lives.
His public words have also given voice to the grief felt by many in Waterford, where neighbours and local organisations are rallying around those affected.
As Gardaí continue their enquiries, the family’s immediate priority is mourning the four people who died and hoping for the recovery of the two children still receiving hospital care.
The investigation may eventually establish what happened that morning. For the family, however, no answer can undo the loss of the people they loved.
