LAST UPDATE | 21 Feb
A MAN WHO admitted killing four members of the same family in a house fire in Co Fermanagh has been sentenced to 29 years in prison.
Daniel Sebastian Allen, 33, appeared before Belfast Crown Court today.
He previously pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of his partner Denise Gossett and the murder of her daughter Sabrina Gossett, 19, son Roman Gossett, 16, and Sabrina Gossett’s 15-month-old daughter Morgana Quinn on 27 February 2018.
The fire was started by Allen at a house in Derrylin, Co Fermanagh.
Relating to the death of 45-year-old Denise Gossett, Allen admitted manslaughter by reason of suicide pact.
He also admitted arson with intent to endanger life.
Allen had previously been sentenced to life imprisonment.
Justice O’Hara said Allen will serve 29 years in prison before he can be considered for release, which taking into account time already served, will be in 2047.
Denise Gosset’s daughter, Samatha, described her mother as her “rock”.
“My beautiful mother was taken from me,” said Samantha.
“My younger brother and sister, Roman and Sabrina, along with Sabrina’s wee baby Morgana are all gone too.
“Their four lives were taken in a fire started deliberately. And it breaks my heart to think on what happened; to think on how they died.
“It is hard to move on with our lives, and my life will never be the same again. But the support of everyone, especially my partner and friends, has truly meant such a lot.”
PSNI Detective Inspector Hazel Miller remarked that “three generations – a mother, her two children and her granddaughter – perished in a fire deliberately started by Daniel Allen in their home”.
Detective Inspector Miller added: “This was a horrific and cruel act. It’s hard to even begin to imagine the panic, fear and sheer suffering.
“With the use of forensic evidence, and working in partnership with the Public Prosecution Service, Daniel Allen has today been held accountable for his actions.
“I’m deeply mindful, however, that this is an event that will never be forgotten.
“We’ve seen destruction and a loss beyond words. My thoughts are with the remaining family members, whose lives won’t ever be the same.”
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