Murder investigation launched into fatal house fire in Waterford

A murder investigation into a house fire in Waterford has been launched after two children and two adults were killed.

Police in Ireland said two other children are in hospital with critical injuries.

A spokesperson said: "An Garda Síochána have commenced a murder investigation into the arson attack and fatal house fire that occurred in the Birchwood area of Waterford City shortly after 5am this morning, Tuesday."

The blaze at a house on the city's Birchwood estate was already "well developed" when firefighters arrived shortly after 5am.

"Firefighting operations commenced immediately, and a number of casualties were removed from the two-storey house," a statement said.

Police later confirmed a man, woman and two children had died, but said they could not yet give any more details.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin called it a "deeply disturbing situation".

Speaking ahead of a cabinet meeting in Dublin, he said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with anybody who has lost their lives and all who are affected."

Minister of State John Cummins said emergency services had to deal with a "horrific scene".

He added: "Waterford has been plunged into utter devastation and sadness this morning with the tragic loss of lives overnight in Birchwood.

"My deepest sympathies go to the loved ones of those who have lost their lives, their friends, neighbours and the wider community."

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Sinn Fein TD for Waterford, David Cullinane, said he was "heartbroken" and called it an "unimaginable tragedy".

He added: "I can only imagine what this will be for family members, for the wider family who live right across the road, for the city and county, and for people who live in the housing estate to be dealing with this level of grief and trauma."

(c) Sky News 2026: Murder investigation launched into fatal house fire in Waterford