Waterford family murders: Number of vehicles and electronic devices seized by gardaí

Gardaí remain at the scene in the Birchwood area of Waterford. A number of vehicles and electronic devices have been seized in relation to the murder investigation. Picture: Mícheál Ó Scannáil/the Press Association

A number of vehicles and electronic devices have been seized as the murder investigation into a firebomb attack in Waterford which killed four continues. 

Philip and Kim English died alongside their sons Callum and Jayden in the attack on their home at the Birchwood estate early on Tuesday.

Two other children remain in critical condition in Children's Health Ireland at Crumlin.

Gardaí continue to appeal for information, stating that there "are people in the community who know the person or persons who carried out this arson attack".

Gardaí are investigating whether the arson attack was connected to a drug debt. 

Investigators are examining information that Mr English may have taken on an alleged drug debt on behalf of someone close to him, which may be linked to the attack. 

In an update on Wednesday, gardaí said the investigation is "intense and very active" with multiple searches being carried out across a number of premises in Waterford city on Tuesday evening.  

A number of electronic devices and vehicles have been seized which are now subject of technical examination, a garda spokesperson said. 

No arrests have been made at this time, the spokesperson added. 

Autopsies on the deceased at still being carried out at University Hospital Waterford. 

Family liaison officers continue to engage with the bereaved family.

The investigation is being coordinated from an incident room at Waterford Garda Station led by a senior investigating officer (SIO), supported by divisional resources, the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (GNBCI) and all other resources as necessary.

"An Garda Síochána acknowledges the extensive support received from the community in Waterford both for the Garda investigation and for the bereaved family," the garda spokesperson said. 

Chief superintendent Pettit, Waterford/ Kilkenny Garda Division, reiterated: "An Garda Síochána believes that the house was attacked by a person or persons unknown and that the fire was started deliberately.

"There are people in the community who know the person or persons who carried out this arson attack in which four people have been murdered.

"If you have any information on the murderous arson attack, please speak to the Garda investigation team at Waterford Garda Station or contact the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or speak with any member of An Garda Síochána that you know.”