THE father of six siblings who lost their lives in a suspected arson attack broke down in tears today.
Mick Philpott issued a statement thanking fire crews for their efforts to save his children.
Speaking at a press conference just five days after the fatal fire in Allenton, Derby, Mr Philpott said his 13-year-old son Duwayne’s organs had been donated to save the life of another child.
Flanked by his wife Mairead, who was also distraught during the five-minute news conference, he also thanked the local community for their “overwhelming” support.
Steve Cotterill, Assistant Chief Constable of Derbyshire Police, also confirmed that the seat of the fire was below the letterbox in the front door of the house.
Investigations had also shown petrol was used, he added.
Jade Philpott, 10, and brothers John, nine, Jack, seven, Jessie, six, and Jayden, five, all perished in the blaze, while Duwayne died of his injuries in Birmingham Children’s Hospital with his parents at his bedside.
Mr Philpott, speaking at Derby Conference Centre, said Duwayne’s organs had been donated, adding: “That makes us happy and it takes a bit of the pain away.
“We grew up in a community that’s been through a lot of problems with violence and to see this community come together like it has, it’s too overwhelming.
“Those poor gentlemen from the fire brigade, who saw what we saw – my heart goes out to them.”