Tragedy struck at Derby when a fire engulfed a home of six children on Friday, claiming its last victim – 13-year-old Duwayne Philpott, after killing five of his siblings.

The Derbyshire police reported that Duwayne Philpott, who was left critically ill after the fire mishap, died early this morning at Birmingham’s Children’s hospital after his parents opted for mercy killing.

The fire spread through the semi-detached home in the early hours of Friday morning as the family was asleep. It claimed the lives of Jade, aged 10, John, aged nine, Jack, aged seven, Jessie, aged six, and Jayden aged five. Mick Philpott, the children’s father, made a courageous attempt to save them but wasn’t successful.

The police also said that the fire mishap is being treated as suspicious. Steve Cotterill, assistant chief constable of Derbyshire constabulary, said the investigation was at an early stage, adding that his officers had not yet had a chance to talk to the Philpotts properly because of Duwayne’s condition.

A 28-year-old woman and 38-year-old man, both from Derby, were arrested by officers while investigating the deaths but were released without charge yesterday.

Locals on the estate have set up an online charity since the children’s deaths to help the family with funeral costs and anything else they may need. On Sunday, a special church service was held for the children at St George’s Roman Catholic church in Derby.

The 57-year-old Mick Philpott was in news when he reportedly demanded the bigger property in Derby because his council house was too cramped to accommodate his family of 17 children, his wife Mairead, girlfriend Lisa.

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