A 76-year-old man has died in hospital two weeks after his home was targeted in a suspected arson attack in Old Swan, Merseyside. George Redmond was asleep alongside his wife Mary when their house on Dorien Road was set alight at around 3.20am on September 1. Neighbours raised the alarm by hammering on the windows, but Mr Redmond fell on the stairs and suffered serious injuries. He died on September 16.
Merseyside Police confirmed the fire was started deliberately. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a petrol can left on the driveway. Residents believe the attack was a case of mistaken identity, describing Mr Redmond as a quiet man who loved gardening and was an avid Everton fan. One neighbour said: 'There's no way at all anybody would want to hurt George and Mary, they were just a quiet couple.'
Mr Redmond's family released a statement paying tribute to a 'lovely husband, dad and granddad'. They said: 'He was making great progress in his rehabilitation and was already mobile and regaining his independence, so his sudden death was unexpected and utterly tragic. We are beyond heartbroken and hope whoever is responsible for this appalling act is swiftly brought to justice.'
Detective Inspector Katie Coote said: 'We have broadened the investigation into his death and his family have been informed. Following a joint investigation with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service we have established that the fire was caused deliberately.' Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.
