Third Person Charged Over Arson Attack That Left Four Children Dead

Firefighters were called around 5 a.m. on Monday Dec. 11 at the house on Jackson Street.Screenshot/Google Maps

A third person has been charged with murder in connection with a house fire that left four children dead.

Demi Pearson, 14, her 8-year-old brother, Brandon and 7-year-old sister, Lacie, all lost their lives in the fire at a home in Walkden, Greater Manchester.

A fourth child, believed to be 3-year-old Lia Pearson, died in hospital on Wednesday.

David Worrall, 25, from Worsley has been charged with four counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder and one count of arson with intent to endanger life, Greater Manchester Police announced on Thursday.

He is expected to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

Fire crews were called to the deadly blaze that broke out just before 5 a.m. on Monday Dec. 11 at the house on Jackson Street.

According to the Manchester Evening News, there are reports that arsonists poured petrol down the chimney and into the letterbox to set fire to the house.

The mother of the children, Michelle, 35, remains under sedation in a hospital. Her 16-year-old son and his friend managed to escape from the fire.

Grandmother Sandra Lever posted a heartbreaking message on Facebook following the news that her 3-year-old granddaughter, Lia had passed away.

“Just letting everyone know they just turned life machine of on Lia, she passed away peacefully... beautiful granddaughter, go find your brother, 2 sisters... love you all so much,” she wrote.

Police confirmed on Wednesday that Zac Bolland, 23, and Courtney Brierley, 20 have been charged with three counts of murder, four counts of attempted murder and one count of arson with intent to endanger life.

The pair appeared briefly before Manchester and Salford Magistrates on Wednesday, and are due to appear in court again on Thursday.

“This is a truly horrific incident with absolutely tragic consequences,” said Chief Supt Wayne Miller, of Salford Police, according to the Mirror.

“Our thoughts go to the family. We need the public’s help to find the answers the family deserve.”