A heartfelt fundraising campaign for Gloucestershire police officer Tom Shearman, who lost his wife and two young children in a devastating Boxing Day house fire, has now raised more than £300,000.
The blaze destroyed the family home in Brimscombe, near Stroud, Gloucestershire, in the early hours of December 26th. Despite Mr. Shearman’s desperate attempts to rescue his wife, Fionnghuala “Nu” Shearman, and their children Eve, aged seven, and Ohner, aged four, the fire’s intensity forced him to retreat.
Following the incident, Mr. Shearman was treated in hospital but has since been discharged. In the wake of this unimaginable loss, a GoFundMe appeal was launched on Sunday with an initial target of £110,000, which was quickly surpassed. The new goal now stands at £350,000.
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As of New Year’s Eve, over 15,000 generous donors have contributed, pushing the total raised beyond £300,000. The funds will help cover emergency accommodation, clothing, and provide essential financial support to Mr. Shearman during this difficult time.
Emergency services responded to the fire at the Cotswold stone mid-terrace cottage on Brimscombe Hill around 3 a.m. The fire is believed to have started on the ground floor, although investigations continue, with no suspicion of foul play.
In a valiant effort to reach his children’s bedroom at the rear of the house, Mr. Shearman smashed a bathroom window but was unable to get inside due to the intense fire. The blaze caused severe damage, destroying the roof, ceilings, and internal staircases.
Tragically, the bodies of Mrs. Shearman, their two children, and their family dog were all recovered from the property.
Nu’s close friend Carmen paid tribute on Facebook, describing her as someone who “loved big and hard” and expressing gratitude for having been part of her life. Carmen’s heartfelt message urged others to cherish their loved ones in the face of such an unfathomable tragedy.
This fundraiser stands as a powerful reminder of community support in times of immense sorrow and loss.