UPDATE: A murder investigation is underway after a devastating house fire in Edenderry, Co Offaly, left two people dead. The tragic incident occurred around 7:45 PM on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at a residence on Castleview Park. A woman, aged 60, and a young boy, just 4 years old, lost their lives in the blaze, prompting urgent action from authorities.
Emergency services, including Offaly Fire and Rescue Service and the National Ambulance Service, quickly responded to the fire. While the flames were extinguished, the grim discovery of the two deceased individuals was made. A second woman, in her 50s, was transported to the hospital with serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
Irish police, known as Garda Síochána, have declared the home a crime scene, initiating a thorough technical examination. Authorities believe the fire was deliberately set, describing it as a “reckless, callous and murderous attack on a family home.”
A spokesperson for the Garda stated, “This investigation is being coordinated from an incident room at Tullamore Garda Station under the direction of a senior investigating officer. We are committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.”
In a call for public assistance, investigators are urging anyone with information regarding the fire to come forward. They specifically want to hear from individuals who were in the vicinity of Castleview Park or surrounding roads between 7 PM and 8 PM on Saturday. The Garda is also seeking any dashcam footage that could assist in the investigation.
As the investigation unfolds, the local community is grappling with the shocking loss. The office of the local coroner and the state pathologist have been notified, and post-mortem examinations will begin today at the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore under the supervision of Assistant State Pathologist Margot Bolster.
Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact the incident room at Tullamore Garda Station at 057 932 7600, the Garda confidential line at 1800 666 111, or any local Garda station, particularly Edenderry Garda Station.
This tragic incident highlights the increasing concerns regarding safety in residential areas. As the investigation continues, the community and families affected are in mourning, awaiting answers to this heartbreaking event. Stay tuned as more updates become available.
