Local football club honors family killed in Waterford arson with guard of honour
Young players from Johnville FC formed a guard of honour as the coffins of the English family were brought to Sacred Heart Church in Waterford.
The English family—parents Philip and Kim and their sons Callum (12) and Jayden (9)—were killed in a petrol-bomb arson at their Birchwood estate home, and their coffins were taken to Sacred Heart Church in Waterford on Sunday. Four hearses arrived before 2 pm and were briefly displayed outside the church, with Liverpool FC jerseys and the Irish tricolour draped over them. Members of Johnville FC, the club where Callum had previously won an under-11 league title, formed a guard of honour and later sat on a low wall in the parish centre.
The club will permanently retire the number five jersey in Callum’s memory. A joint funeral mass is scheduled for the following day, and local businesses are closing in respect.
Why it matters
The community’s response highlights the impact of the tragedy and the role of local sports clubs in collective mourning.
How this story developed
- Oct 13 Multiple fatalities feared after residential blaze in Waterford city
- Oct 13 A murder investigation has been launched.
- Oct 17 Gardaí announced the detention of two suspects in connection with the Waterford arson.
- Oct 18 Funeral services for the four victims were held and attended by hundreds of residents.
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