Inquest finds electrical fault likely caused fatal Boxing Day house fire

An inquest heard that a fire which killed Fionnghuala Shearman and her two young children at their home in Brimscombe, Gloucestershire, probably began in the living room. The coroner accepted that an electrical ignition source was likely, and concluded the deaths were accidental. The findings matter as they clarify the probable cause and circumstances of the fatal Boxing Day fire.

The fire broke out at about 3am on 26 December last year. Fire investigators said plugged-in electrical devices may have started it, while a Christmas tree and soft furnishings likely helped it spread. Tom Shearman, a police officer, escaped and made several attempts to reach his family, but was forced back by the flames; he also rescued a neighbour. His wife, 38, and their children, aged seven and four, died from exposure to fire combustion products, as did the family dog.