St Helens: Eighth arrest after Eric Greener and Sheila Jackson die in ‘sickening’ arson attack on their Merseyside home

An eighth person has been arrested over the murders of an elderly couple who died after an arson attack on their home earlier this month, police have said.

Eric Greener, 77, and Sheila Jackson, 83, died following the fire at their home in St Helens, Merseyside, in the early hours of 15 July.

A 48-year-old man from nearby Everton was being questioned on suspicion of conspiracy to murder and conspiracy to commit arson, Merseyside Police said on Friday.

Lee Owens, 46, has been charged with two counts of murder and arson with intent to endanger life.

Three men and three women who were also arrested as part of the investigation remain on conditional bail subject to further inquiries, the force said.

The blaze, which is believed to have been started with an accelerant, has been described as “absolutely sickening” by police.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath said the arrest “marks more progress in the investigation, and I want to make it clear that all of those arrested remain subject of further inquiries, with strict bail conditions imposed. Updates will be provided as and when appropriate”.

The officer appealed for anyone with information to come forward and urged people not to speculate about the case on social media.

Mr Greener and Ms Jackson, who had lived at the property on South John Street for 15 years, were described as the “life and soul of the party” by their family.

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In a tribute released by police, they said: “They will forever be devastatingly missed but eternally loved by their family, friends and the community.”

Owens is due to appear at Liverpool Crown Court in November.