Murder investigation underway after four killed in ‘deeply disturbing’ Waterford fire
An arson attack and house fire in the Birchwood area of Waterford City killed two adults and two children, according to Irish police.
Two other children were taken to hospital and are in critical condition. The fire was reported shortly after 5am on Tuesday, 13 October 2026.
An Garda Síochána has opened a murder investigation. An incident room is operating at Waterford Garda Station, with a senior officer and family liaison officers assigned.
Police are asking anyone with information about the attack to contact the investigation team. The article does not report any arrests or further details about the circumstances.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister of State John Cummins expressed condolences. Cummins also praised emergency workers who attended the scene.
Key points
- Four people died in the Waterford fire: two adults and two children.
- Two more children are critically injured in hospital.
- Police are investigating the arson as murder and seeking information.