Kilcock Fire Tragedy: Somebody out there must know something!

On the 20th September 1987, a fire occurred at Church Lane, Kilcock, Co Kildare. The remains of Barbara Doyle, aged 20 Years, Mary Ellen Byrne aged 8 years and Kerrie Byrne aged 4 years were discovered at the scene. 
The children’s parents Aidan (now deceased) and Elizabeth went to a 21st party that night in the locality. Elizabeth’s sister Barbara Doyle babysat her two nieces, Mary Ellen and Kerrie in their home. Between 3am and 4am that Sunday morning a fire was reported at the house.

Mary Ellen and Kerrie Byrne with theitr mother Elizabeth Byrne

The investigation remained open since this time. New evidence has come into the possession of the Gardai and they now believe the fire was started deliberately. 
The investigation has now been upgraded to a murder investigation. An incident room has been established at Leixlip Garda Station. The Serious Crime Review Team are assisting local investigators. 

The Meath Chronicle reports on the 1987 tragedy

Speaking at Leixlip Garda Station Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche said "We are satisfied there are people who will remember this fire and the deaths of Barbara, Mary Ellen, and Kerrie, and who have not yet spoken to Gardaí. We are appealing to any person who has any information to contact Leixlip garda station at 01-6667800 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111. I would further appeal that the privacy of the Byrne and Doyle families is respected at this time.”

Gardaí investigating the case wish to thank members of the public who have come forward and provided information to the investigation team.
Kerrie had only just started school a few weeks before, while Mary Ellen was in Third Class. Barbara worked as a shop assistant in Kilcock.
The town was shocked and numbed by the tragedy, with thousands attending the funeral at St Coca's Church and the burial at St Joseph's Cemetery. Locals also set up a disaster fund as a gesture of solidarity with the family of the victims.

Barbara Doyle