Boy, 6, dies after horror 'arson attack' that killed four members of family

A six-year-old boy has become the fifth member of his family to perish following a suspected arson attack in County Waterford. Eliott English passed away today at Children's Health Ireland hospital in Crumlin, Dublin, after sustaining critical injuries during the incident at the family's residence. The youngster had been receiving treatment for nearly a month since the blaze occurred at the home on Birch Avenue. His death marks a devastating escalation in what authorities are treating as a multiple murder enquiry. The tragedy claimed the lives of Elliot's parents alongside two of his brothers during the early morning incident on October 13. Philip English and his wife Kim perished in the blaze at their semi-detached home, along with their sons Callum, who was 12, and nine-year-old Jayden. The fire erupted at the family's residence on Birch Avenue, located on the outskirts of Waterford, shortly after 5am that morning. A further child from the family also sustained critical injuries during the attack and remains hospitalised in a critical condition. Gardaí issued a brief statement following the youngster's death this evening. "The thoughts of all members of An Garda Síochána are with the extended English family at this sad time," Irish police said. Detectives continue to pursue a multiple murder investigation that was initiated after the fire at the property. Six individuals have been detained by police in connection with the alleged arson attack. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS Four of those arrested have subsequently been released without any charges being brought against them. The investigation remains active as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident that devastated the English family. Two suspects remain in custody on charges relating to the alleged arson attack. Jessica Dalton, aged 31, and Cian Stacey, 21, appeared before magistrates last month and were remanded pending further proceedings. Both defendants face one count of criminal damage alongside two counts of assault causing serious harm. The pair are scheduled to return to Waterford District Court on November 17, with appearances to be conducted via video link. Following the alleged attack, the local community demonstrated its support for the affected family. Hundreds gathered for a prayer vigil in the days after the incident. Floral tributes and toys were placed outside the damaged property as residents expressed their grief. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter Follow related topics: