The Waterford football community is united in grief after the death of Johnville FC youth player Callum English and his family in a suspected arson attack. Callum, 12, his parents Kim and Philip English, and his nine-year-old brother Jayden died in a fire at their Birchwood home in the early hours of Tuesday, October 13, with two other children left in critical condition.
Johnville FC, where Callum had progressed through the underage system for five years, issued a statement expressing devastation. "Everyone at Johnville FC is absolutely heartbroken and devastated by the tragic events in Waterford," the club said. They described Kim and Philip as familiar and friendly faces who always supported Callum at his matches. Callum was part of the Johnville U11 side that won its league two seasons ago and had recently moved up to the U14 team.
Investigation continues
An Garda Síochána has launched a murder investigation, with a senior officer appointed and an incident room established at Waterford Garda Station. Officers are appealing for anyone in the Birchwood area early on Tuesday to come forward. The National Bureau of Criminal Investigation is assisting, and family liaison officers have been assigned. Mayor of Waterford Liam Brazil and the mayor of the Metropolitan District Lola O’Sullivan issued a joint statement expressing heartbreak, while a prayer vigil for the family and community is planned for Wednesday evening.
Club and community support
The tragedy has resonated across the city as Waterford FC prepares for its next Premier Division fixture away to Bohemians this Friday. The club sits eighth in the table with 34 points from 32 games, its recent form reading two wins, two draws and one loss. Johnville FC emphasised that football is about people, friendships and community, and said the wider Johnville family is hurting alongside all who knew the English family. Professional supports and facilities are available at the Butler Community Centre in St John’s Park for those affected.
Philip English’s 33-year-old son from a previous relationship, John James English, spoke of his devastation, noting the family home had been targeted in a previous attempted attack. The club has appealed for anyone with information to contact Gardaí to assist the investigation. As the city mourns, the focus remains on supporting the two surviving children who are receiving treatment at Children's Health Ireland Crumlin hospital. The club's full squad and upcoming fixtures provide a context of ongoing activity amid profound loss.
First reported at waterford-news.ie
