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20th Sep 2019

Gardaí appeal for information on a fatal house fire started 32 years ago

Alan Loughnane

Garda fire Kildare

Anyone with information is urged to come forward.

Gardaí are renewing their appeal for information on a fatal house fire started on this day 32 years ago.

On 20 September 1987, a fire occurred at Church Lane, Kilcock in Kildare where 20-year-old Barbara Doyle, eight-year-old Mary Ellen Byrne and three-year-old Kerrie Anne Byrne lost their lives.

The children’s parents went to a 21st birthday party on the night in question and Barbara – an aunt of the two girls – was babysitting them.

Between 3am and 4am that Sunday morning, a fire was reported at the house and claimed the lives of the three.

New evidence was presented to Gardaí two years ago and they now believe that the fire was started deliberately.

An incident room has been set up at Leixlip Garda Station and the investigation was upgraded to a murder investigation.

Gardaí firmly believe that there are persons in the community who have information in relation to this fire and are appealing to any person who has any information to contact Leixlip Garda station at 01-6667800 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

The  public are asked to respect the privacy of the Byrne and Doyle families.

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