Grandmother recounts horrific petrol bomb attack

The grandmother of the three children who were injured in the horrific petrol bomb attack has today spoken of the events that took place last night.

The attack occurred at the home of Nellie Halligan last night at around 9.20pm.

"We heard Ellen screaming," she said. "Roisin was in on the chair that I lie on and she was protecting the little one-year-old.

"Roisin is the worst. She's only 11 and she poured herself over the little one-year-old to protect her.

"I went in and the whole sitting room had gone up and they were all shouting ‘get out mammy, get out’. ‘I won't I said, I'm getting the extinguisher’ and I wouldn't leave that room until I got that out.

Mrs Halligan spoke then of what she did to get her grandchildren to safety.

"I tore out burning mats and duvets" she added.

"The forensics were looking for what went through the window and it took my six-year-old granddaughter to cop it, in between all the burning mats.

"I would have died in that room. I would not have left any of them. There was no one taking me out of that room."

The damage caused by the petrol bomb in Nellie Halligan’s front room

In the aftermath of the attack Nellie was relieved something very precious to her was safe.

"When they got the fire out, I was out in the garden and I thought of my sons pictures. My three boys had died and they wouldn't let me back into the room on account of forensics.

"I ran to the window and asked them if the pictures were ok and thanks be to God they were alright with just a bit of dust on them."

Roisin, William and Lexi Halligan who were injured in the attack. All pictures Patrick Browne.

A 23-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident.

He is being questioned at Waterford Garda Station.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to contact them at Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300, the Garda Confidential Line 1800-666111 or any Garda Station.