Searches carried out in investigation into fatal arson attack in Edenderry

Gardai have conducted searches as part of an investigation into the deaths of a four-year-old boy and his grand-aunt in an arson attack.

Four-year-old Tadgh 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.

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

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

On Friday morning, gardai carried out three searches at domestic residences in Co Kildare and Co Offaly.

Later on Friday, gardai said the operation had concluded but the results of the searches were not being disclosed for “operational reasons”.

On Wednesday, gardai released CCTV footage of the attack which appears to show two hooded individuals smash a window before lighting an object and throwing it into the property.

Hundreds of people took part in a candlelit vigil on Wednesday night in memory of the victims.

Tadgh’s funeral was held at St Mary’s Church in Edenderry on Friday.