A devastating fire in Waterford, Ireland, has claimed another young life after six-year-old Elliot English died in hospital on Friday, November 6, 2026, following critical injuries sustained in an alleged arson attack on his family home last month.

Elliot passed away at Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) Crumlin Hospital in Dublin, bringing the death toll from the October 13 tragedy in the Birchwood estate to five members of the same family. His death has deepened the grief surrounding an incident that has shocked Waterford and communities across Ireland.

Birchwood Fire Claims Another Life

The fire occurred shortly after 5 a.m. on Tuesday, October 13, at a family home on Birch Avenue in the Birchwood area of Waterford city.

Emergency services, including Waterford Fire Service, Gardaí and ambulance personnel, responded to the scene after the house became engulfed in flames.

Four family members died following the incident. They were identified as parents Kim and Philip English and their two sons, Callum, aged 12, and Jayden, aged nine.

Elliot and his 14-year-old sister were also critically injured and transported to hospital in Dublin for treatment.

Despite medical efforts, Elliot died from his injuries on November 6. His older sister remains in hospital receiving treatment.

Family Confirms Elliot English’s Death

The English family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement, expressing profound sadness over another devastating loss.

The family said they had endured an unimaginable tragedy and that Elliot’s death had left relatives, neighbours and friends facing an overwhelming period of grief.

They also asked members of the media to respect their privacy and allow them time and space to come to terms with the loss.

The family expressed appreciation for the kindness, compassion and support they have received from members of the public during the difficult period. They also asked that their surviving child, who remains in hospital, be kept in people’s thoughts and prayers.

Garda Investigation Into the Alleged Arson Attack

An Garda Síochána is continuing its investigation into what authorities believe was a deliberate attack on the family home.

The incident is being investigated as a multiple murder, with investigators examining the circumstances surrounding the fire and the events leading up to it.

Six people have been arrested in connection with the investigation. Two individuals, Jessica Dalton, 31, and Cian Stacey, 21, have been charged and appeared before Waterford District Court. Four other people were released without charge, with files being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Authorities have continued to appeal for information from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity around Birchwood during the early hours of October 13.

Waterford Community Mourns

The deaths of the English family members have left a profound impact on the local community. Floral tributes and messages of sympathy have been placed near the family home as residents remember those who lost their lives.

Elliot’s death adds another heartbreaking chapter to an already devastating tragedy.

As the family continues to grieve, condolences are extended to their relatives, friends, neighbours and everyone affected by the Birchwood fire.