'A callous & murderous attack on a family home'

A WOMAN and a four-year-old boy have died in a house fire following a “callous and murderous attack on a family home”.

- BY NICOLA DONNELLY

YOUNG LIFE LOST: Tadgh Farrell was just four years old

Gardai have launched a full murder inquiry into the deaths of Mary Holt, 60, and her young grandnephew Tadgh Farrell, who were innocent relatives of a convicted drug dealer.

The blaze broke out just before 7.45pm on Saturday at the house in Edenderry, Co Offaly, where the victims and other family members lived.

By the time fire crews arrived, flames had already consumed most of the two-storey property.

Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Ms Holt worked in the nearby Ofalia House nursing home in Edenderry and has been described as a "beautiful angel" by a relative.

A second woman, in her 50s, who was also in the house at the time of the arson attack, remains in hospital receiving treatment for serious injuries.

Paying tribute, a family member wrote: "No words can say how I feel at this moment. You're the most kind, caring person I know, You do anything for anyone. I love you Aunty Mary. I'll miss you forever. You'll be in my prayers.

"Hope God gives you the best bed up there, your with nanny and sister Caroline, RIP. Aunty Mary, I'll miss you and our chats and you telling me to cop on. I'll miss you giving out to me. You're the best Mary, you rest in peace and fly high beautiful angel."

Others have also paid tribute writing on social media: "Poor Mary and poor baby. Shouldn't have happened. Am heartbroken."