The small town of St Helens in Merseyside has been left reeling after a horrifying arson attack took the lives of two beloved great-grandparents. The tragic deaths of Eric Greener, 77, and Sheila Jackson, 83, have shocked the community and prompted an intense investigation.
The victims, affectionately described by family members as the “life and soul of the party,” were targeted in what police are calling a “sickening” and deliberate act of violence. The suspect, 46-year-old Lee Owens, has now been charged with their murders and with arson with intent to endanger life.
The incident occurred in the early hours of July 15, when emergency services were called to a blaze at the couple’s residence on South John Street, where they had lived for 15 years. Despite being rescued and taken to hospital, Mr. Greener and Ms. Jackson succumbed to their injuries within days of the attack, devastating not only their family but an entire community that cherished them.
This horrific crime has sent waves of grief and outrage throughout Merseyside, as people struggle to comprehend how such violence could be visited upon a couple so universally loved and respected. The investigation has revealed that an accelerant was used to start the fire, indicating the deliberate nature of the attack. Now, as charges are brought forward, attention turns to the legal process and to remembering the lives that were so cruelly taken.
A Shocking Act of Violence
The events of July 15 began just after midnight, when residents of South John Street noticed smoke billowing from the home of Eric Greener and Sheila Jackson. Firefighters and emergency services responded quickly to the call at 12.40 am and managed to rescue the elderly couple from the burning home. Despite their efforts, both victims suffered critical injuries and were taken to hospital. Sadly, Mr. Greener passed away on the night of Wednesday, July 17, while Ms. Jackson died early Thursday morning.
According to Merseyside Police, investigators quickly determined that the fire had been started deliberately, with an accelerant used to fuel the blaze. This revelation turned a tragic fire into a murder investigation and stunned the local community, which is unaccustomed to such acts of violence. Police described the crime as a “truly shocking incident,” and vowed to pursue every lead to bring those responsible to justice.
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The breakthrough came when 46-year-old Lee Owens, of no fixed address, was charged with two counts of murder and one count of arson with intent to endanger life. Lee Owens has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Liverpool Magistrates’ Court. In addition, a 31-year-old man from St Helens who was also arrested on suspicion of murder remains on conditional bail as investigations continue.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath called the act “sickening,” echoing the sentiments of many in the community. Detective Superintendent Rachel Wilson further emphasized the emotional impact of the tragedy, noting how deeply affected the people of St Helens have been by the deaths of Eric and Sheila. “Our investigation team have been carrying out extensive inquiries into the incident,” she said, reaffirming the force’s commitment to uncovering the truth behind this heinous act.
Remembering Eric Greener and Sheila Jackson
In the days following the attack, the grieving family of Eric Greener and Sheila Jackson released a moving tribute that painted a portrait of a couple full of life, laughter, and love. “Sheila and Eric, also known as our Queen and King,” the statement began, “were a deeply loved mum, nan, great-Nan, sister, auntie, dad, step-dad, grandad, great-grandad, uncle and couple.”
They were remembered not just for the roles they played within the family, but for their vibrant personalities and the joy they brought to others. Known for their love of music and their penchant for karaoke, they were often the life of every gathering. They were also fond of caravan holidays and shared many happy memories with loved ones in quieter, simpler times.
The family’s tribute highlighted the sense of unity and love that surrounded the couple throughout their lives, and the enormous void their deaths have left behind. “They will forever be devastatingly missed but eternally loved by their family, friends, and the community,” the statement read.
Neighbours have also expressed their sorrow, with many laying flowers at the scene of the fire and sharing stories of the couple’s kindness. One resident described Sheila as “a lovely woman who always smiled and waved,” while another recalled how Eric once helped them with gardening, refusing any sort of payment. “They were just good people,” one neighbour said. “They didn’t deserve this.”
Justice, Grief, and a Community in Mourning
With Lee Owens formally charged and another suspect under investigation, the case now moves into the legal phase. Lee Owens’ court appearance is set to mark the beginning of what will likely be a lengthy judicial process. Police have continued to appeal for any witnesses or information, seeking to establish a full account of events leading up to the arson.
The motive behind the attack has not yet been made public, but investigators are confident that with time and continued community cooperation, they will be able to build a comprehensive case. Meanwhile, the residents of St Helens remain shaken, their sense of safety deeply undermined by the crime.
Local leaders have urged unity and support for the grieving family, while also calling for calm and trust in the justice system. Many are finding ways to honour the memory of Eric and Sheila, with vigils being planned and charitable causes being discussed to preserve their legacy.
The tragedy has also brought into sharp focus the dangers faced by elderly and vulnerable people, even within their own homes. Community leaders and law enforcement are emphasizing the importance of neighbourhood watch and outreach to ensure that no one is left isolated or unprotected.
For now, the focus remains on supporting the bereaved family and seeking justice. As the investigation unfolds, the memory of Eric Greener and Sheila Jackson will live on, not only through the love of their family but also in the collective heart of the community they were so deeply a part of.
Their loss is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the cruelty that sometimes visits even the most peaceful of homes. But it is also a call for compassion, vigilance, and solidarity in the face of unimaginable grief.