Gardai appeal to Kildare public over Edenderry arson attack

An Garda Síochána continues to investigate all the circumstances of a fatal house fire that occurred at a domestic residence in Castleview Park, Edenderry, Co. Offaly on the evening of Saturday December 6, 2025.

Four-year-old Tadhg Farrell was visiting his grandmother and grand-aunt Mary Holt in the Castleview Park area of Edenderry, Co Offaly, when the home was attacked shortly before 7.45pm on Saturday.

Tadhg and Ms Holt, 60, were discovered dead in the front room of the house where the fire had been deliberately started, gardai said.

Tadhg’s grandmother, who has not been named, is receiving treatment in hospital for burn injuries.

This morning, December 12 2025, investigating Gardaí from the Serious Crime Unit, Laois/Offaly Garda Division were carrying out three searches at domestic residences in Co. Kildare and Co. Offaly.

The Garda Investigation team was supported by National Units including Special Tactics & Operations Command (STOC), Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (GNBCI) and units from Laois/Offaly Garda Division and Kildare/Carlow Garda Division.

An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to any person with any information on this violent fatal incident to speak with investigating Gardaí.

The investigation team can be contacted at the incident room at Tullamore Garda Station on 057 932 7600, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station, in particular Edenderry Garda Station.

Meanwhile, The father of four-year-old Tadgh Farrell, has been denied compassionate bail to attend his son’s funeral.

Tadgh's funeral took take place today (Friday, December 12) at 12 noon in St. Mary's Church, Edenderry, followed by burial in St. Mary's cemetery.

A spokesperson said: “An Garda Siochana continues to appeal to any person with any information on this violent fatal incident to speak with investigating gardai.”