Two people have sadly died and a murder investigation is underway following an arson attack in St Helens on Tuesday 15 July.

At around 12.40am, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) contacted us to report a house fire was in progress on South John Street.

Emergency services attended the scene and two elderly occupants were rescued from inside the home and taken to hospital for treatment.

Peter Eric Greener, 77, and his partner Sheila Jackson, 83, died from their injuries.

A joint investigation with MFRS was carried out and it was determined that an accelerant was used to start the fire maliciously. It’s believed this was carried out by a third party.

We are appealing for anyone with information to come forward, particularly if you live in the area of South John Street and recall seeing or hearing anything suspicious at around the time of the incident.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath, who is leading the investigation, said:

“This is a truly shocking incident and I’m sure that the community and everyone in Merseyside will be utterly appalled at what has happened.

“It’s difficult to comprehend how someone could deliberately start a fire while two elderly people are inside the home. It’s absolutely sickening, and we are determined to find the person or people responsible.

“An investigation is ongoing as we look to establish exactly why this has happened and we are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

“If you live in this community and saw or heard something suspicious at any point during this evening, please let us know as a matter of urgency.

“Also, if you have CCTV or a smart doorbell, take the time to review any footage you have to see if you captured anything that could prove to be significant. Even if it appears to be a small detail, it could end up being vital to our inquiries.

“I would also ask that any drivers who have dashcam footage and were in the area of South John Street and Parr Street between midnight and 1am to contact us if you have captured anything significant."