West Midlands Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of an 82-year-old man who was seriously injured in a house fire in Wednesbury earlier this month.
John Edwards passed away in the hospital on Sunday, 25 May, two weeks after the blaze broke out at a property on Holyhead Road in the early hours of Sunday, 11 May. Three other individuals were also left with serious injuries and remain in a critical but stable condition.
Detectives had previously charged 53-year-old Andrew Gorrell, from Saltney, Chester, with arson and three counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Following Mr. Edwards’ death, authorities are now working with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to review the charges. Gorrell appeared at Wolverhampton Magistrates’ Court and remains in custody.
Police expressed their condolences to Mr. Edwards’ family, who specialist officers are supporting. Detective Inspector stated, “This is a tragic development, and our investigation continues to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fire. We urge anyone with information—particularly those who were in the area on the evening of Saturday, 10 May, or the early hours of Sunday, 11 May—to come forward.”