Investigations by Gloucestershire Police and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service into the Boxing Day fire in Brimscombe have now concluded. The tragic blaze, which occurred in the early hours of December 26 around 3am, claimed the lives of 38-year-old Nu Shearman and her two children, seven-year-old Eve and four-year-old Ohner, as well as the family dog.
Emergency crews had maintained a presence at the scene on Brimscombe Hill since the fire, but the cordon has now been lifted. Responsibility for the area has been transferred to Stroud District Council as police and fire services complete their inquiries.
Further investigations continue under the coroner’s direction. An official inquest into Nu Shearman’s death will open at Gloucestershire Coroner’s Court on January 12, while dates for the children’s inquests are yet to be confirmed.
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Temporary Chief Constable Maggie Blyth expressed ongoing sympathy for the family: “Our thoughts remain with Tom Shearman, Nu’s husband and father to Eve and Ohner, during this heartbreaking time. We continue to provide support through family liaison officers, and as his employer, we are committed to assisting him and his family as they cope with their immense loss.”
Authorities have stated there is no suspicion of foul play surrounding the fire. Mark Preece, Chief Fire Officer at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue, paid tribute to the emergency responders, noting the exceptionally challenging circumstances they faced. “Our hearts go out to the Shearman family. We honor the professionalism and tireless efforts of all involved, and we will keep supporting the coroner’s inquiries and the community however we can.”
T/CC Blyth also acknowledged the community’s profound response: “It’s been humbling to witness the outpouring of support for the Shearman family. Many across policing and the local area have been deeply affected and will need time to come to terms with this tragedy. Specialist services remain available to anyone seeking help.”
Tom Shearman described his desperate attempt to save his family amid the intense flames, calling it his “darkest of hours.” In the aftermath, a fundraiser was established to support Tom, rapidly raising hundreds of thousands of pounds within a week.
Leaders from Stroud District Council and Gloucestershire County Council reiterated their condolences and thanked the community, volunteers, and emergency personnel for their unwavering support. Their statements highlighted the unity and compassion displayed in the wake of this devastating event.
The British Red Cross has also offered support services for those affected, reachable at 0808 196 3651 during designated hours.