Two more arrests made after great-grandparents killed in arson attack

Police have arrested two more people following the death of two great-grandparents in an arson attack at their home.

Eric Greener, 77, and Sheila Jackson, 83, died in the blaze in St Helens, Merseyside, in the early hours of 15 July. Merseyside Police said on Tuesday a further two had been arrested in relation to the murders, which brings the total number of arrests to 10.

A man, 34, from Aigburth, was arrested on suspicion of murder, conspiracy to murder, arson and conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. He had previously been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder and possession of cannabis.

A woman, 37, from Everton, has also been arrested on suspicion of murder, conspiracy to murder, arson and conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, according to police. She was previously arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder and conspiracy to commit arson.

They are both in custody and being questioned by police. Lee Owens, 46, of no fixed address, has been charged with two counts of murder and arson with intent to endanger life.

He has been remanded in custody and will appear at Liverpool Crown Court on 28 November. Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath said: "This brings the total number of arrests to ten as our investigation continues to move forward.

"I would like to take this opportunity to ask anyone with information to please come forward if you haven't yet done so. "We will thoroughly assess everything that comes in and take the appropriate action, so do not assume what you know is already known by us.

"Murder investigations can be complex, and a small piece of the picture could be vital." Mr Greener and Ms Jackson, who had lived at the property on South John Street for 15 years, were previously described as the "life and soul of the party" by their family. In a tribute released by police, they said: "They will forever be devastatingly missed but eternally loved by their family, friends and the community." Anyone with information can contact police via X @MerPolCC, on Facebook through the Merseyside Police Contact Centre page, through the force's website or by calling 101 quoting incident reference 25000580909.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111..