Vicious Cycle: Revenge, Arson, Overdose, Jail

A drug dealer's quest for revenge culminated in a fatal arson attack that claimed the lives of an elderly couple, Sheila Jackson, 83, and Eric Greener, 77. The perpetrator, Paul Smith, died of a drug overdose seven days after the fire, before he could be brought to justice for the blaze on South John Street.

The investigation revealed that Kevin Weetman, a feared Liverpool drug dealer, orchestrated the attack. Smith, deemed unstable and unreliable, had crossed Weetman, leading to a brutal beating and threats. Weetman then coerced Smith into firebombing the home of George Jackson, the son of Sheila, who had previously helped a dealer working for Weetman.

During the trial, it emerged that Weetman, cleared of murder but convicted of manslaughter, had instructed Maynard to assist Smith. The arson occurred on July 14, 2025, with Smith and an accomplice, Lee Owens, igniting the fire despite knowing George Jackson was not home. Neighbours rescued the couple, but they succumbed to their injuries approximately 48 hours later.

Weetman received a life sentence with a minimum of 25 years. Kylie Maynard was jailed for 23 years for manslaughter and conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. Lee Owens pleaded guilty to manslaughter and received a 13-year sentence, closing the chapter on this violent episode.