Gardaí launch murder investigation into Waterford house fire

Gardaí have confirmed that they have begun a murder investigation into the arson attack and fatal house fire in Waterford City.

Emergency services were alerted to a fire in the Birchwood area of the city at around 5am this morning.

Gardaí later confirmed that two adults (one male and one female) and two of their children are deceased. Two other children are in critical condition in hospital.

This afternoon, forensic officers arrived at the scene, and later a recovery truck to try and remove a vehicle from the property.

In a statement, An Garda Síochána 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, 13th October 2026.

"An Garda Síochána have confirmed that two adults (one male and one female) and two of their children are deceased.

"Two other children have been removed from the scene and are receiving hospital treatment for critical injuries.

"An incident room has been set up at Waterford Garda Station and a senior investigating officer (SIO) has been appointed. Family Liaison Officers have also been appointed.

"An Garda Siochána are appealing to any person with any information on this multiple murder and arson attack to contact the Garda investigation team.

"An Garda Síochána is also appealing to any person in the vicinity of Birch Avenue, Birchwood, Waterford City in the early hours of Tuesday, 13th October to contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station."