A police officer who lost his entire family in a devastating Boxing Day house fire has issued a heartbreaking public tribute, describing how his life's 'very core was ripped from it'.
Tom Shearman's wife Fionnghuala, known as Nu, their seven-year-old daughter Eve, and four-year-old son Ohner, along with the family dog Hutch, all perished in the blaze at their mid-terrace Cotswold stone cottage in Briscombe. The fire, which is not being treated as suspicious, caused the roof to fall in and the ceilings and stairs to collapse.
A Life Changed Forever
In an emotional statement shared online, Mr Shearman revealed the profound impact of the tragedy that struck on 26 December 2025. He said his life, and the lives of his loved ones and community, were irrevocably changed.
'I cannot begin to describe the anguish and trauma of the events of Boxing Day 2025,' he wrote. 'My family had its very core, its very essence, ripped from it in the most violent way.'
He paid tribute to his 'unbelievably talented, empathetic, compassionate and beautiful wife' and his 'bright spark' daughter and 'incredible' son, vowing to ensure their legacies live on.
Community Support and a Path Forward
Mr Shearman expressed being 'humbled beyond comprehension' by the support he has received, including a fundraising effort that has raised over £160,000 from well-wishers. He confirmed he has a roof over his head, food, and, most importantly, company and compassion from family and friends.
'I will heal,' he stated with determination. He also shared that a plan had come to him 'just as I was falling past the precipice of the abyss,' focusing on continuing his family's passions and spirit.
He extended his heartfelt thanks to the emergency services who tried to save his family, hoping they are being looked after.
A Plea to Cherish Loved Ones
Concluding his tribute, the grieving father urged everyone to cherish their time with family. 'Please all take every opportunity to hug your loved ones, tell them you love them,' he wrote, quoting author Paulo Coelho: 'one day you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the things you want. Do it now.'
His final words were a message of remembrance: 'Now go light up the darkest corners and the black sky. In memory of Nu. Eve. Ohner. Hutch.'
The fire is understood to have started on the ground floor of the property. Investigations continue, though it is not currently considered suspicious.
