Two more men have been charged following the tragic death of an elderly couple in a house fire. Eric Greener, 77, and Sheila Jackson, 83, lost their lives after an arson attack on their South John Street home in St Helens in July.
In the aftermath of the horrific incident, police revealed that accelerants had been used to fuel the blaze. Neighbours recounted how the front door was engulfed in flames, hindering firefighters’ rescue efforts.
The elderly pair were eventually rescued from the burning property and rushed to hospital, but sadly succumbed to their injuries.
In an update on their investigation, Tuesday, September 16, Merseyside Police revealed that Kevin Weetman, 34, of Croxteth Drive, Aigburth, and Kylie Maynard, 37, of Rydal Street, Everton, have both been charged with two counts of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, arson, and conspiracy to supply a class A drug (cocaine).
Both have been remanded in custody and are due to appear at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, Wednesday, September 17.
A third individual, Lee Owens, 46, of no fixed address, has already been charged with two counts of murder and arson with intent to endanger life. He remains in custody and is scheduled to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday, November 28.
So far, seven other people have been arrested in connection with this case, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath stated: “The investigation is progressing and two more people have now been charged in connection with this incident.
“I would like to take this opportunity to remind people that this is a live investigation, and to be mindful that anything posted or shared on social media could jeopardise proceedings, so please support us as we move forward with the case. The best way to help is to pass information on through official channels.
“To that end, we are still keen to hear from anyone who may hold information and not yet made themselves known to police. Do not presume that what you know is already known to us, contact us directly or anonymously through Crimestoppers and we will make the assessment. Thanks to all of those who have assisted us so far.
“If you have any information, you can visit our dedicated web page to submit information or footage which can help in the investigation: Public Portal.
“You can also contact us on social media @MerPolCC. You can also report information via the website: Report a crime | Merseyside Police or call 101 quoting incident reference 25000580909.
“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: Giving information anonymously | Crimestoppers”.