The two children who lost their lives in the devastating house fire in Birchwood, Waterford City, have been named as 12-year-old Callum English and his nine-year-old brother Jayden.

The brothers died alongside their parents Kim and Philip in the fire, which broke out at a property in the Birchwood estate shortly after 5am on Tuesday, October 13th.

Two other children, aged 14 and six, remain in a critical condition at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin in Dublin.

Tributes have been paid to the two young boys, with Johnville Football Club confirming that Callum had been a member of the club for five years.

Callum began his football journey in the club’s academy before progressing through the underage ranks, playing from U11 to U14 level.

The club has extended its deepest sympathies to the family following the deaths of Kim, Philip, Callum and Jayden.

A fundraising page has also been established to support the family following the tragedy.

Meanwhile, Gardaí have launched a murder investigation into the fatal fire, which is being treated as a deliberate arson attack.

An incident room has been established at Waterford Garda Station, with a senior investigating officer and Family Liaison Officers appointed.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who was in the vicinity of Birch Avenue, Birchwood, during the early hours of Tuesday morning to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.