# Waterford arson attack and murder investigation > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/waterford-arson-attack-and-murder-investigation > Updated: 2026-10-17T14:47:02.000Z. Sources: 24. Developments: 3. On October 13, 2026, a suspected arson attack at a residence in the Birchwood estate of Waterford City resulted in the deaths of Philip and Kim English and their two children, aged 12 and 9. Authorities believe the fire was deliberately started, possibly with a petrol bomb. Two other children, aged six and 14, were rescued from the home and remain in critical condition at Children’s Health Ireland in Crumlin. Family members suggested the attack was linked to a 20,000 euro drug debt involving another party, despite asserting the family had no criminal involvement. Following the incident, An Garda Síochána conducted raids on suspected drug traffickers and seized vehicles and electronic devices. By October 17, two suspects were identified and charged. Cian Stacey, 21, and Jessica Dalton, 31, appeared at Clonmel District Court facing charges including criminal damage and assault causing serious harm. Both have been remanded in custody. Investigators believe the suspects may have connections to organized crime groups in the area, with allegations suggesting the attack was part of drug-related intimidation. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly stated that the investigation is intensifying and that resources are being fully deployed, with more arrests expected. As the community mourns, local football clubs and parishioners have provided tributes and a guard of honour for the deceased. Funerals for the family members are being held at Sacred Heart Church. ## Claims - Two people have been charged in connection with an arson attack in Waterford. (corroborated by 5 sources) - Philip and Kim English and their sons, Callum (12) and Jayden (9), died in the arson attack. (corroborated by 5 sources) - Two other children, aged six and 14, remain in critical condition in hospital. (corroborated by 5 sources) - A joint funeral for the four deceased family members is scheduled for Monday. (corroborated by 3 sources) - Gardaí are treating the incident as a multiple murder and arson attack. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly stated that significant progress has been made in the investigation. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Investigators have carried out seven searches and seized a vehicle and devices. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Cian Stacey, 21, and Jessica Dalton, 31, appeared in court charged with criminal damage and assault causing serious harm. (corroborated by 2 sources) - The attack is believed to be related to drug debts owed by someone known to the family. (single source) ## Timeline ### 2026-10-17: Waterford arson attack: Two charged after four family members killed Two people have been charged following a suspected arson attack in Waterford, Ireland, that killed Philip and Kim English and their two young sons. Two other children remain in critical condition. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/waterford-arson-attack-two-charged-after-four-family-members-killed ### 2026-10-15: Waterford arson attack: Two charged in English family murders Two people have been charged following a fatal arson attack in Waterford, Ireland, that killed four members of the English family. Two other children remain in critical condition. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/waterford-arson-attack-two-arrested-in-multiple-murder-investigation ### 2026-10-13: Waterford arson attack investigation: Four dead including two children A murder investigation is underway in Waterford, Ireland, after a suspected arson attack killed four members of the English family and left two children in critical condition. 19 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/waterford-ireland-house-fire-results-in-multiple-fatalities --- Cite as: Waterford arson attack and murder investigation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/waterford-arson-attack-and-murder-investigation