British couple charged with murdering six children in house fire

The Philpotts at a news conference held in the days after their children's deaths. Screenshot via YouTube.

Michael (“Mick”), 55, and Mairead Philpott, 31, of Derbyshire, England, have been charged with the murder of their six children after a fire in their home on May 11th. They will appear in court on Thursday morning.

Jade, age 10, John, age 9, Jack, age 8, Jessie, age 6, and Jayden, age 5, all died in the fire. Their 13-year-old brother Duwayne died at Birmingham Hospital two days after the fire from his injuries. His parents were at his bedside when life support was removed.

The Philpotts held an emotional press conference five days after the fire, thanking those who tried to save their children, and announcing that they had donated Duwayne’s organs. Hundreds have signed a condolence book for the family at Derby Cathedral, and thousands of British pounds have been donated to help with funeral costs.

A number of people went to the police with “extremely useful” information after an appeal for help yesterday, said Derbyshire Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Steve Cotterill. Cotterill stressed in his statement last night that the investigation is ongoing, and encouraged anyone else who may have information to come forward. “We are determined to get to the truth,” he said.

The fire was set when someone poured gasoline through the mail slot of the home and then ignited it.

Mick Philpott is said to be the father of 17 children total. He earned the nickname “Shameless Mick” when he made public demands for a larger house for his family.

Sources: BBC News, The Independent, The Daily Mail, BBC News