Two remain in custody over Limerick arson attack

Two 17-year-old youths remain in Garda custody today in connection with an vicious arson attack in Limerick on Sunday which has…

Two 17-year-old youths remain in Garda custody today in connection with an vicious arson attack in Limerick on Sunday which has left two children critically ill.

The two were arrested by gardaí just after 8pm in Limerick city last night.

They are being questioned under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act and can be held for up to 72 hours without charge.

Meanwhile, the parents of the two children maintained a bedside vigil at Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin, Dublin.

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Millie (6) and Gavin (4) Murray remained in a critical condition last night after receiving treatment for their severe burns yesterday.

Philomena (Millie) Murphy (6) and her brother, Gavin (4), underwent surgery at Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, yesterday. Their condition is said to be critical but stable. They were burned in fire in a car outside a house in Pineview Gardens, Moyross, on Sunday.

Their mother, Sheila Murray (35), was inside the house visiting a friend when a flammable liquid was poured into the car and ignited.

Philomena suffered serious burns to her head and body. Gavin lost an ear and was said to have been so badly burned that the seat cover melted into the skin on his back.

Their father, Niall McNamara (35), a lorry driver from East Singland Road, Garryowen, claimed the fire was deliberate.

Mr McNamara, who is separated from Ms Murray, said his children were lucky to be alive after their ordeal.