The Killer in My Family returns with a new episode, looking at the tragic case of Darren Sykes, who made headlines in October 2014. The episode, titled “Darren Sykes,” airs on Quest Red on Saturday, 3 August 2024, at 9:00 pm.
The episode focuses on the devastating house fire that claimed the lives of Darren Sykes and his two young sons, Jack and Paul. As the police investigate, they uncover a disturbing act of revenge, revealing a father’s vengeful motive.
Darren Sykes lured his 12-year-old son, Jack, and 9-year-old son, Paul, into the attic of their home with the promise of a train set. He then proceeded to douse the carpets with petrol and barricade them in, blocking their escape routes. Sykes had spent a significant amount on model railway equipment and sent texts to his sons about his purchases, with one message reading, “All I need now are two engine drivers.”
Prior to the fire, Sykes was captured on CCTV buying petrol in portable containers from a nearby filling station. He had also purchased additional containers from a retail park. When police arrived at the scene, they discovered a chair wedged under a door handle, further evidence of Sykes’ deliberate actions.
Darren Sykes’ estranged wife, Claire Throssell, believes that her husband killed their children as a form of punishment directed at her. Throssell, along with her sons, had been living with her mother in Thurlstone. Before his death, Jack disclosed to authorities that his father had intentionally set the fire.
The Killer in My Family: Darren Sykes airs on Saturday, 3 August 2024, at 9:00 pm on Quest Red.
