Kommissar sagt Drogen-Intimidation 'sehr schwierige Sache für gardaí zu behandeln'

Funeral arrangements have been announced for Philip and Kim English, along with their two children, Jayden and Callum, who were killed in a deadly arson attack on their home in Waterford on Tuesday morning. A mass will be held at the Sacred Heart Church in The Folly, Waterford, at 1pm on Monday, followed by a burial in Kilbarry Cemetery. The family will repose in the Sacred Heart Church Parish Centre from 2pm to 5pm on Sunday. Donations in lieu of flowers will be directed to Crumlin Children’s Hospital. The attack occurred at approximately 5am on Tuesday in the Birchwood estate, where an incendiary device set fire to the family home. Four members of the English family, Kim, Philip, Jayden, and Callum, died as a result. Two other children, a 14-year-old girl and a six-year-old boy, remain in critical condition at CHI Crumlin. The victims had no involvement in drugs or crime, according to reports. A man in his 20s and a woman in her 30s were arrested on Thursday in connection with the attack. Both are being questioned under anti-gang legislation and could be detained for up to seven days. Gardaí stated they are pursuing all individuals involved, including those who may have ordered the attack. Damien Tiernan, a broadcaster from Waterford Local Radio, spoke on Newstalk about the impact of the tragedy. He noted the English family was widely respected in the community and had no ties to criminal activity. Tiernan mentioned that the family was deeply connected to the local football club, where Callum played his last match before the attack. The club plans to retire Callum’s number five jersey in honor of his memory. Parish priest Fr Gerard Chestnutt expressed the profound sadness felt throughout Waterford. He emphasized the community’s concern for the two surviving children and called for anyone with information to come forward. He stressed the importance of justice for the victims and their families. A vigil was held at the Sacred Heart Church following the attack, and a support hub has been established at the Butler Community Centre to assist those affected. Amy McGuire, the centre’s manager, said the facility has received numerous donations and has a team of mental health professionals ready to provide grief counseling. She anticipates increased demand for these services in the coming weeks and months. At a recent meeting of the Waterford City and County Council, officials observed a minute’s silence in remembrance of the victims. Mayor Lola O’Sullivan praised the efforts of emergency services and expressed gratitude for the support provided to the family and the broader community. The council has also opened books of condolence that can be signed at City Hall in Waterford or at civic offices in Dungarvan. The community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the attack, with ongoing investigations and support efforts underway. The funeral is expected to draw a large crowd, with representatives from the government and the President anticipated to attend.