A heartbreaking house fire in Stroud on Boxing Day has claimed the lives of a police officer’s wife and two young children, sparking an outpouring of support that has raised nearly £160,000 in just two days.
Tom Shearman, an officer with Gloucestershire Police, lost his wife Fionnghuala “Nu” Shearman and their children Eve, aged seven, and Ohner, aged four, when their home in Brimscombe was engulfed in flames in the early hours of December 26th.
Despite Tom’s desperate attempts to rescue his family—smashing through bathroom windows and trying multiple entry points—the fierce fire made it impossible for him to reach them. He was subsequently hospitalized but has since been discharged.
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The mid-terrace Cotswold stone cottage suffered severe damage, including destruction of the roof, ceilings, and stairs. Emergency services responded promptly after the blaze was reported around 3 a.m. Detective Superintendent Ian Fletcher confirmed the fire originated on the ground floor and is currently being treated as a tragic accident, with no suspicion of foul play.
Investigators and witnesses have described the immense anguish experienced by Tom as he tried to save his loved ones. The community’s response has been overwhelming: a GoFundMe campaign launched on Sunday has attracted nearly 7,000 donors, surpassing the initial £110,000 goal and now aiming for £190,000 to assist Tom during this unimaginable time.
Temporary Chief Constable Maggie Blyth expressed her condolences, saying, “This is an unimaginable tragedy… my heart breaks at the indescribable pain that they must be experiencing.”
Fionnghuala Shearman was known for her bespoke handbag business, Hide & Hammer, crafting fashion accessories from leather and canvas. Friends describe the loss as utterly shocking, with the cause of the fire still under investigation.
The community continues to rally around Tom Shearman, offering support and solidarity as he navigates this devastating loss during what should have been a joyful holiday season.