Man, 31, arrested on suspicion of murder over house fire that killed elderly couple
Peter Eric Greener, 77, known as Eric, died on July 16 at his home in St Helens alongside his partner Sheila Jackson in the early hours of Tuesday.
Merseyside Police say an arrest has now been made and the murder suspect remains in police custody for questioning.
The force also confirmed an accelerant had been used to start the blaze in South John Street at around 12.40am on Tuesday, July 15.
It comes as the end-terrace home was on fire when firefighters arrived in hopes of rescuing the pair who were rushed to hospital but died the following day.
Detective Superintendent Rachel Wilson, senior investigating officer, said: 'Although an arrest has been made, I would like to take this opportunity to remind people to pass on information directly to police or anonymously via Crimestoppers, and not to comment or post in any way which jeopardises this ongoing work.
'Extensive inquiries continue, and to that end we are still appealing for anyone with information to come forward, particularly if you live in the area of South John Street and recall seeing or hearing anything suspicious at around the time of the incident.
'Please do not assume what you know has already been reported to us, as we can quickly make that assessment.'
On Friday, pictures of the couple, including one showing Mr Greener with his arm around Ms Jackson, were released by their families through the police.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath said last week it was 'sickening' and 'a truly shocking incident' adding everyone in Merseyside would be 'utterly appalled' at what had happened.
The 'lovely couple' had been together for 30 years and have left an 'incredibly close-knit' community struggling to come to terms with their sudden deaths.
Neighbours described feeling 'raw' and being 'all gutted' by the tragic event.
The couple, who were parents and grandparents, had been living in the property for 15 years prior to their death.
One heartbreaking message that accompanied a bunch of roses read: 'There are no words to express the sadness that we feel that this senseless act has happened to two of the loveliest people that we had the pleasure of knowing.
'May you both rest in peace together.
'With all of our love from your neighbours and friends.'
Anyone with information has been asked to contact Merseyside Police by calling 101, quoting incident reference 25000580909, or through social media on X @MerPolCC or on Facebook at Merseyside Police Contact Centre.
Information can also be given through Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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