Story perspectives

Arsonist Convicted of Manslaughter in Fatal St Helens Attack

2/19/2026

Summary

Weetman Convicted Manslaughter

Kevin Weetman, 34, was convicted of manslaughter for an arson attack that killed 83-year-old Sheila Jackson and 77-year-old Eric Greener in St Helens, Merseyside.
The attack targeted Jackson's son, George, who refused to work for Weetman after receiving cocaine as a "gift."
Weetman, along with co-defendants Kylie Maynard and Lee Owens, was acquitted of murder but found guilty of manslaughter.
The judge labeled Weetman as "dangerous" and suggested he could receive a life sentence.
Family members described the attack as "unforgivable."

Summary

Weetman's Deadly Scheme

Kevin Weetman tried to recruit George Jackson as a drug dealer, offering cocaine for helping Kylie Maynard.
After Jackson declined, Weetman planned to harm him to avoid losing face in the drug world.
Weetman's plan caused a fire at Jackson's home, killing Eric and Sheila, who were not the intended victims.
The incident highlights deadly stakes in drug conflicts and the broad harm beyond intended targets.

History

Historical Context

The UK's Misuse of Drugs Act, enacted in 1980, aimed to address the escalating drug trade and its associated violence. This legislation followed a surge in drug-related incidents, exemplified by the tragic arson attack in St. Helens, where Kevin Weetman's actions resulted in the deaths of Sheila Jackson and Eric Greener. The ongoing battle against drug violence continues to impact communities nationwide.

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Weetman Convicted Manslaughter

Kevin Weetman, 34, was convicted of manslaughter for an arson attack that killed 83-year-old Sheila Jackson and 77-year-old Eric Greener in St Helens, Merseyside.
The attack targeted Jackson's son, George, who refused to work for Weetman after receiving cocaine as a "gift."
Weetman, along with co-defendants Kylie Maynard and Lee Owens, was acquitted of murder but found guilty of manslaughter.
The judge labeled Weetman as "dangerous" and suggested he could receive a life sentence.
Family members described the attack as "unforgivable."

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