Key Takeaways
- Three suspects, Kylie Maynard, Lee Owens, and Kevin Weetman, have been charged with the murders of 77-year-old Eric Greener and 83-year-old Sheila Jackson.
- The couple died after an arson attack at their home in St Helens earlier this year.
- Lee Owens has pleaded guilty to two charges of manslaughter, while Maynard and Weetman have denied the murder charges.
- The trial is expected to last four to six weeks and will begin on January 19 next year.
- The victims’ family has paid tribute to them, describing them as the "life and soul of the party" who will be "forever missed but eternally loved".
Introduction to the Case
The tragic events that unfolded on South John Street in St Helens earlier this year have left a community in shock and mourning. Eric Greener, 77, and his partner Sheila Jackson, 83, died after an arson attack at their home, which they had lived in for 15 years. The incident has led to the charging of three suspects, Kylie Maynard, Lee Owens, and Kevin Weetman, with their murders. The case has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many struggling to comprehend how someone could deliberately start a fire while two elderly people were inside their home.
The Arrests and Charges
The three suspects appeared before Liverpool Crown Court to face the allegations against them. Maynard, 37, and Weetman, 34, pleaded not guilty to the murder charges, while Owens, 46, pleaded guilty to two charges of manslaughter. Maynard and Weetman also denied a count of conspiracy to supply cocaine. The defendants were remanded into custody by the Honorary Recorder of Liverpool Judge Andrew Menary KC ahead of a pre-trial review on December 23. The trial is expected to last four to six weeks and will begin on January 19 next year.
The Incident and Its Aftermath
The incident occurred on July 15, when emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 12:30 am. Firefighters arrived to find the end of terrace property ablaze, with both victims being rescued from the address. Despite their efforts, Eric died in hospital the following day, and Sheila passed away on the morning of July 17. The family of the victims has paid tribute to them, describing them as the "life and soul of the party" who will be "forever missed but eternally loved". Neighbors have also spoken out about the couple, describing them as "good people" who were always friendly and welcoming.
The Investigation and Reaction
The investigation into the incident has been ongoing, with Merseyside Police working to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire. Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath has described the incident as "truly shocking" and "sickening", and has vowed to find the person or people responsible. The use of an accelerant in setting the fire has been confirmed, and neighbors have described seeing the front door of the home engulfed in flames. The community has been left reeling from the incident, with many struggling to come to terms with the senseless violence that has been perpetrated against two innocent people.
The Victims and Their Legacy
Eric and Sheila were a beloved couple who had been together for over three decades. They were known for their love of karaoke and their enjoyment of caravan holidays. Their family has described them as the "Queen and King" of their community, and they will be deeply missed by all who knew them. The incident has served as a reminder of the importance of community and the need to look out for one another, particularly the elderly and vulnerable. As the trial approaches, the community will be watching with bated breath, hoping for justice to be served and for the perpetrators to be held accountable for their actions.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The case of Eric Greener and Sheila Jackson is a tragic reminder of the senseless violence that can occur in our communities. The charging of three suspects and the guilty plea of Lee Owens to manslaughter charges are significant developments in the case, and the trial will be closely watched by the community and the media. As the family and friends of the victims continue to mourn their loss, they can take some comfort in the knowledge that justice is being pursued, and that those responsible will be held accountable for their actions. The trial is expected to begin on January 19 next year, and it is hoped that it will bring some closure to the family and the community, and provide a sense of justice for the victims.