Murder investigation launched after woman and boy, 4, die in 'deliberate' house fire

Murder investigation launched after woman and child die in suspected arson attack

A murder investigation has begun after a woman and a young child were killed in a house fire in Edenderry, Co Offaly, which Gardaí believe was started deliberately.

The blaze broke out at a property in Castleview Park on Saturday evening, 6 December, prompting a major response from emergency services. Crews from Offaly Fire and Rescue Service, alongside the National Ambulance Service and Gardaí, were called to the scene shortly before 7.45pm.

Once firefighters managed to bring the fire under control, the bodies of a 60 year old woman and a four year old boy were found inside the home.

Another woman, understood to be in her 50s, was rescued from the property and taken to hospital by ambulance, where she is being treated for serious injuries, Irish Mirror reported.

Gardaí have sealed off the area and declared the property a crime scene. Specialists from the Garda Technical Bureau are conducting a full forensic examination. The local coroner and the State Pathologist’s Office have also been informed.

The bodies of the victims have since been removed for post mortem examinations, which are due to take place this afternoon at Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore, under Assistant State Pathologist Margot Bolster.

An incident room has been set up at Tullamore Garda Station, where the inquiry is being led by a Senior Investigating Officer. A Family Liaison Officer has been appointed to support the relatives of those affected.

In a statement, An Garda Síochána said it believes the house was “attacked by a person or persons unknown” and confirmed that early indications suggest the fire was started deliberately. The incident has been described as “a reckless, callous and murderous attack on a family home”.

Officers are now appealing for witnesses and information. They are particularly eager to hear from anyone who was in the Castleview Park area or surrounding roads between 7pm and 8pm on Saturday evening. Drivers who may have dashcam footage from the area during that period are also urged to come forward.

Anyone with information can contact the investigation team at Tullamore Garda Station on 057 932 7600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station, including Edenderry Garda Station.