Wednesbury pensioner dies in hospital from 'serious injuries' caused by housefire - sparking murder investigation

West Midlands Police have launched a murder investigation after a pensioner died two weeks after a devastating house fire in Wednesbury which left three others critically injured.

By Adam Dutton

Published May 29

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John Edwards, 82, was rescued from the blaze which tore through the semi-detached property in Wednesbury, West Midlands, on May 11.

West Midlands Police revealed today (May 29) that despite the efforts of medics, the OAP tragically died two weeks later in hospital on Sunday (25/5).

A man and woman in their 80s, alongside a man in his 50s, were taken to hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries

The force said three other people seriously injured in the fire, including a man in his 50s and woman in her 80s, remain in a critical but stable condition.

Andrew Gorrell was previously charged with arson and three counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

A murder investigation into the fire has been opened

The 53-year-old from Saltney, Chester, was remanded to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court and remains in custody.

Police said they were now working with the Crown Prosecution Service to review the charges.

West Midlands Fire Service said the blaze had been put out and an investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "Our thoughts are with his family following this tragic development. "We are in close contact with them, and they are being supported by our specialist officers.

"We are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information about the fire to contact us, and we are especially keen to hear from anyone who was in the area of the evening of Saturday 10 May or the early hours of Sunday 11 May.

"We have set up an online portal where you can leave any information you may have including videos and pictures." To visit the online portal go to https://orlo.uk/6iCdq or contact police on 101, quoting log 504 of May 11.