St Helens is reeling after a deadly fire on South John Street claimed the lives of Peter Eric Greener, 77, and his partner Sheila Jackson, 83.

 

Emergency services rescued the long-time couple, but both passed away in hospital days later.

 

Investigators with Merseyside Police and Fire and Rescue confirm an accelerant caused the deliberate blaze.

 

A 31-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

 

Detectives are urging anyone with information or who witnessed suspicious behavior near South John Street to come forward.

 

The motive remains unknown, deepening the pain and uncertainty among neighbors.

 

The community, deeply shaken, has united in grief, remembrance, and commitment to supporting the families.

 

Support is available locally as the investigation continues and St Helens honors the memory of two cherished residents.

Merseyside Police ramped up their response to anti-social behaviour in Clock Face with a coordinated day of action on July 22, bringing together officers, PCSOs, and community partners at Chester Lane Library.

 

Teams from the St Helens Neighbourhood Policing Team, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, St Helens Borough Council, and local organizations patrolled the area in both uniform and plain clothes.

 

Thanks to visible patrols and targeted enforcement, officers seized a suspected stolen Sur-Ron electric dirt bike and disrupted dangerous scrambler bike activity in nearby woodlands as part of Operation Gears.

 

Residents welcomed the operation, using the chance to voice concerns directly and help set policing priorities.

 

Inspector Stacey Pope and Councillor Trisha Long emphasized that collaborative action strengthens neighbourhood safety and community trust.

 

Police urge residents to keep sharing information, helping make Clock Face safer for all.