The Michelle Pearson inquest heard that she died holding a photograph of her four children killed in an arson attack.
Relatives placed the photograph and a crucifix in her hand as she died in hospital, Bolton Coroner’s Court heard on Monday, Oct. 5, according to ITV News.
Pearson, a mother of six, died aged 37 on Aug. 25, 2019, following complications from burns suffered in the December 2017 attack in Walkden, Greater Manchester.
Family Describes Fear Before the Fire
The hearing examined accounts of threats and damage to the family’s home before the fatal attack.
Pearson’s mother, Sandra Lever, said her daughter had desperately wanted to move. The court heard that windows had been smashed, a bin set alight and graffiti painted on the property.
Lever said Pearson sought emergency housing but was told she did not meet the criteria. She described the children as frightened to remain in their home.
These accounts form part of the evidence before the coroner. The inquest has not yet reached conclusions about the responses of public agencies.
What the Inquest Will Examine
The proceedings began nearly nine years after the attack and are expected to last up to eight weeks, according to Garden Court North Chambers, whose barristers represent the family.
Senior Coroner Timothy Brennand will examine authorities’ responses to reported threats, alongside evidence about Pearson’s medical treatment.
The family believes opportunities to protect them were missed. Brennand emphasized that the proceedings are an examination of the circumstances surrounding the deaths, not another criminal trial.
Remembering Michelle and Her Children
The fire killed Demi, 15, Brandon, eight, Lacie, seven, and Lia, three. Their relatives shared personal tributes at the opening of the hearing.
They remembered Michelle as a devoted mother who read bedtime stories, Demi as generous, Brandon for his infectious smile, Lacie for her love of dancing and Lia for her affectionate, talkative personality.
Zak Bolland and David Worrall received life sentences for murdering the children. Both were later convicted of Michelle’s murder after her death.
The inquest continues. The family has requested privacy while the proceedings are underway.