Merseyside Police have charged two more individuals with murder in connection with a fatal house fire in St Helens that resulted in the deaths of an elderly couple in July. The investigation into the deaths of Eric Greener, 77, and Sheila Jackson, 83, continues to develop, with a total of three people now facing murder charges.
Key Takeaways
- Kevin Weetman, 34, and Kylie Maynard, 37, have been charged with two counts of murder.
- The charges relate to a fatal arson attack on South John Street, St Helens, in July.
- The victims were Eric Greener, 77, and Sheila Jackson, 83, who died from their injuries.
- A third person, Lee Owens, 46, was previously charged with murder in the same case.
- Police are continuing their investigation and appeal for public information.
New Charges Announced in Arson Investigation
Merseyside Police confirmed on Tuesday, September 16, that two more people have been charged as part of the ongoing investigation into a deadly house fire. Kevin Weetman, 34, of Croxteth Drive in Aigburth, and Kylie Maynard, 37, of Rydal Street in Everton, now face multiple serious charges.
The pair have been formally charged with two counts of murder, conspiring to murder, and arson. Additionally, they face charges of conspiring to supply a controlled class A drug, specifically cocaine.
Both Weetman and Maynard have been remanded into custody. They are scheduled to make their first appearance at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, September 17, to hear the charges against them.
Third Individual Previously Charged
These new charges follow the earlier arrest and charging of another individual. Lee Owens, 46, of no fixed address, was previously charged with two counts of murder and arson with intent to endanger life in connection with the same incident. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday, November 28.
Details of the St Helens Incident
The charges stem from a devastating fire that occurred at a residence on South John Street in St Helens on Tuesday, July 15. Emergency services were called to the scene to find the property ablaze. Firefighters managed to rescue the two elderly occupants, Eric Greener and Sheila Jackson, from inside the home.
Both victims were transported to the hospital for urgent medical treatment. Tragically, both Mr. Greener and Ms. Jackson later succumbed to the injuries they sustained in the fire.
Subsequent investigations by police revealed that the fire was started deliberately. Forensic analysis confirmed that an accelerant had been used to start the blaze, indicating a targeted arson attack. Neighbours at the time described how the front door of the property was completely engulfed in flames, which significantly hampered the initial rescue efforts by firefighters.
Investigation Progress
The investigation has been extensive, leading to multiple arrests. In addition to the three individuals who have been charged, a total of seven other people have been arrested so far in connection with the case as police continue to piece together the events leading to the fire.
Police Appeal for Information and Caution
As the legal proceedings advance, police have issued a public appeal for information and a reminder about the sensitive nature of the case. Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath is leading the investigation and provided a statement on the latest developments.
“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.”
DCI McGrath emphasised that any information, no matter how small it may seem, could be crucial. He urged the public not to assume that police are already aware of what they know.
“The best way to help is to pass information on through official channels,” he added. “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.”
How to Submit Information
Merseyside Police have established several channels for the public to provide information safely and securely. Detectives are particularly interested in any footage or direct knowledge that could assist their inquiries.
- Online Portal: Information and footage can be submitted directly to the investigation team via a dedicated web page: Public Portal.
- Social Media: Contact Merseyside Police on social media via @MerPolCC.
- Police Website: Reports can be made through the official website at Report a crime | Merseyside Police.
- Phone: Call the non-emergency number 101 and quote the incident reference 25000580909.
- Anonymous Reporting: To provide information anonymously, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their secure online form.
The police have thanked everyone who has come forward with information so far and continue to encourage public cooperation as the case progresses through the justice system.