Children 'Petrified' Before Fatal Arson Attack, Inquest Hears

Four children were "petrified" by a series of attacks on their home before a petrol bomb attack killed them, an inquest has been told.

Demi Pearson, 15, her brother Brandon, eight, and sisters Lacie, seven, and Lia, three, died at their home in Jackson Street in Walkden, Greater Manchester, in December 2017. Their mother, Michelle Pearson, 37, suffered severe burns in the blaze and died in August 2019.

The inquest, scheduled to last eight weeks at Bolton Coroner's Court, heard that Michelle Pearson had informed the police she did not feel safe in the house, which had been targeted with graffiti and had its windows smashed.

Zak Bolland and David Worrall were convicted of the murders of the four children in 2018 and subsequently convicted of Michelle's murder in 2021. Bolland received a life sentence with a minimum of 40 years, while Worrall was sentenced to life with a minimum of 37 years.

Two weeks prior to the fatal incident, Bolland had smashed windows at the property with a hammer, causing extensive damage. Relatives stated in a statement read at the inquest that Michelle Pearson was traumatized and had contacted the police on five separate occasions. Her son Kyle, who escaped the fire, said in a statement that "the police didn't do anything."

Anna Morris KC, representing the Pearson family, described Michelle Pearson as a devoted mother who read bedtime stories to her children. She sustained extensive injuries in the fire and remained hospitalized for a prolonged period, unaware for some time that her children had died. Her mental health deteriorated after being informed.

Her family placed a crucifix and a photograph of her children in her hand upon her death. "We know she's back with her children and out of pain," a family statement read.

Demi Pearson was remembered as a "happy, smiley child" who was "best friends" with her mother. Brandon was described as having an infectious smile and being a "mummy's boy." His sister Lacie was characterized as a little "diva," and Lia was a "chatterbox" with a "cheeky laugh." "All of the children had such bright futures ahead of them," the family statement added. "We cherish the short time we shared with them."

Bolland's girlfriend, Courtney Brierley, 20, was sentenced to 21 years for four counts of manslaughter. The inquest is ongoing.