Fionnghuala Shearman, affectionately known as Nu, and her two children, seven-year-old Eve and four-year-old Ohner, tragically lost their lives in a devastating house fire on Boxing Day near Stroud, Gloucestershire.
Nu’s closest friend, Carmen, described her as someone who “loved big and hard” and expressed deep gratitude for having been part of her life. “We lost the brightest of lights this week,” Carmen shared in a heartfelt tribute on Facebook. “There are no words for the devastation those close to her feel right now.”
The fire, which began in the early hours on December 26, destroyed a mid-terrace Cotswold stone cottage on Brimscombe Hill. Both parents woke to the blaze and made desperate attempts to reach their children—efforts tragically unsuccessful despite the father’s brave attempts to re-enter the property through multiple points. The father, a Gloucestershire Police officer, was ultimately unable to save his family.
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Authorities believe the fire started on the ground floor, but it is not being treated as suspicious. The blaze caused extensive damage to the roof, ceilings, stairs, and interiors of the home.
Temporary Chief Constable Maggie Blyth confirmed that the bodies of the two children, their mother, and the family dog were recovered from the scene.
Community members have expressed their sorrow and support, leaving numerous heartfelt messages on social media. Many have urged others to cherish their loved ones, inspired by Nu’s open-hearted nature.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the grieving family, rapidly raising over £226,000 from more than 10,000 generous donations — a heartwarming reflection of the community’s solidarity in the face of this unimaginable tragedy.