Neighbours were in shock after the house fire
15:03, 16 Jul 2025Updated 20:27, 16 Jul 2025
Scientific support officers at the scene of a house fire that left a couple fighting for their lives
A “lovely” couple are fighting for their lives after a suspected arson attack. Emergency services rushed to South John Street in St Helens at around 12.40am on Tuesday, July 15, where an elderly couple was rescued from a house fire.
They were both taken to hospital where they remain in critical condition. A joint investigation is now underway between Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service to establish the cause of the fire, although from initial inquires it is believed to have been deliberate.
Neighbours spoke to the ECHO this morning, July 16, with one explaining the door was ablaze, which prevented fire crews from rescuing the couple. Gavin Thelwell, who lives on the same block of terraced houses as the couple, said: “When I came out of my house, there were fire engines that had already arrived, but the front door was on fire, which was stopping the firefighters from getting inside.
“They had to put that out before they managed to get them out of the house.”
He continued: “I feel so sorry for them; they’re good people. I chat with them all the time. He’s usually walking down with his walking frame to go to the pub, and he’ll stop halfway by the street sign to have a break.
“They were always really nice; I just can’t believe this has happened. It’s so bad.”
Another neighbour said: “They were just a really quiet couple who wouldn’t do anything to anyone. They were just surviving with each other in that house. They’ve done nothing wrong; it’s just sad. They are two lovely people who don’t deserve this.”
The pair are currently in an intensive care unit, with their dog also seen being rescued from the building.
A white tent outside a house after a horrific blaze
Detective Inspector Steve Byrom said: “This incident is being treated as suspicious and inquiries are ongoing. If you live on or near to South John Street, please check any CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage and we will be in the area to speak to residents.
“Two residents of this home are in a critical condition, and I am sure the community will be appalled at what has happened. Do the right thing and come forward if you hold any information, no matter how small.
“An investigation is ongoing to establish how the fire began, and we are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch as a matter of urgency.”
Superintendent Chris Ruane, who leads local policing in St Helens, said: “I understand the impact that such a shocking incident will have on the community.
“Please be assured that this incident is being taken extremely seriously, and there will be more officers in the area to offer reassurance to residents.
“We are determined to get answers to what happened. In the meantime, feel free to speak to officers in the area if you have any concerns.”
Anyone with information should contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X @MerPolCC or on Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’. You can also report information via their website or call 101 quoting incident reference 25000580909.
Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: Giving information anonymously | Crimestoppers.