Dublin family subject to arson attack in case of mistaken identity – The Irish Times
Dublin Family Recovers After Arson Attack Meant for Someone Else
Updated May 29, 2025
Pat Curran, a Dublin artist, is grappling with the aftermath of an arson attack on his family home in Ballyfermot. The May 21 incident, which authorities believe was a case of mistaken identity, has left the family reeling and their home severely damaged.
Curran, 68, was asleep on the couch when a petrol bomb was hurled through the front window. He described waking up to a scene he likened to “hell.” His wife, Breda, and their 20-year-old son, Luke, were upstairs. The family escaped, but their dog, Zach, perished in the blaze.
Breda Curran recounted waking to the sound of crashing glass and Luke’s shouts. She saw the heat as she ran downstairs, realizing it was a fire. Neighbors alerted the Dublin fire Brigade, who quickly extinguished the flames. Breda and Luke were treated for smoke inhalation.
The family, who have lived in the landen Road area for over 30 years, are currently staying with relatives.A GoFundMe page has been established to assist with the extensive repairs needed.
Despite the devastation,Curran,whose art often focuses on community themes,plans to showcase his fire-damaged paintings in a future exhibition.He expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the Ballyfermot community and the art world.
“I woudl equate it to waking up in hell,” Curran said, recalling the night of the arson attack.
Curran acknowledged the emotional toll of the incident, saying it had taken “lumps” out of him. Though, he also emphasized that the community’s response has renewed his faith in the people of Ballyfermot.
“But it has also renewed my faith in the people of Ballyfermot, the community spirit that has been shown to us,” Curran added. “People that don’t even know us have been supporting us, and also the art world.”
What’s next
The family faces a long road to recovery, both physically and emotionally. Counseling is anticipated to help them cope with the trauma.The gardaí continue to investigate the arson attack.