A pre-inquest review has been scheduled to examine the tragic deaths of members of the Pearson family in a house fire in Walkden. This review, set to take place at Bolton Coroner’s Court, is a preliminary step to outline the issues and evidence for the full inquest into the fire that occurred on December 11, 2017.
The devastating fire resulted in the deaths of four children: Demi Pearson, 15, Brandon Pearson, 8, Lacie Pearson, 7, and Lia Pearson, 3. The incident has left a lasting impact on the community, and the inquest seeks to understand the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking loss.
Michelle Pearson, the mother of the children, survived the initial fire but later succumbed to her injuries in August 2019. The pre-inquest review will consider the timeline of events, the response by emergency services, and any other relevant factors that might shed light on how the fire started and spread.
The Pearson family’s home on Jackson Street was deliberately set on fire, and this arson attack has prompted a thorough investigation. Zak Bolland, David Worrall, and Courtney Brierley were subsequently convicted in connection with the fire. Bolland and Worrall were found guilty of murder, while Brierley was convicted of manslaughter.
The review is an essential step in ensuring that the full inquest will be comprehensive and that all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined. This process aims to provide a clear understanding of the events leading up to the tragedy and to ensure that justice is served for the Pearson family. The community and the family members who survived continue to seek answers and closure from this devastating incident.
Our deepest thoughts are as always with the Pearson family.
