Arson survivor left devastated as triple deaths probe goes on

A triple murder investigation was launched after Thomas Sharkey, 21, his eight-year-old sister, Bridget, and their father, Thomas Sharkey Senior, 55, died following the blaze at their home in Scott Court, Helensburgh, on July 24.

Angela Sharkey, 46, was critically injured in the blaze and remains in hospital.

Her sister, Margaret McKechnie, 56, said she told Mrs Sharkey of the deaths on Thursday.

She said: “We’re absolutely heartbroken at the deaths of young Thomas, Bridget and of course their dad Tommy as well.

“I had to tell my sister Angela the news and she was totally and utterly devastated to hear from me that her two lovely young children had been taken from her.

“There was such sadness in her eyes and I can’t begin to explain how shattered she is by this terrible, terrible news.

“On behalf of my sister Angela I would like to ask anyone please, please if you have any information, don’t be afraid to come forward to the police to help us solve this horrible crime.”

Police, who have still to speak to Mrs Sharkey, issued a fresh appeal for information about the fire. Around 50 officers are involved in the inquiry.

The fire broke out in the living room of the flat at around 5.10am on July 24 and quickly spread. Strathclyde Police said the building had just one door and the family became trapped by the flames.

Mr Sharkey Senior was seen hanging out of the window and shouting for help. His son was found dead at the scene. The rest of the family were taken by ambulance to the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley, where Bridget died a short time later.

Mr Sharkey and his wife both suffered serious burns and were moved to Glasgow Royal Infirmary, where he died on July 30.

Police said they are keen to speak to people who were at two parties which took place near Scott Court on the night of the blaze.

The parties went on into the early hours of the morning. They are also keen to speak to two men seen nearby at around 5am.

Police are examining CCTV collected from around the district and are visiting more than 500 houses and business premises.