Flintshire Man Denies Midlands Pensioner Murder, Arson, Attempted Murders

Andrew Gorrell, 53, has appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court via video link to deny charges of murdering 82-year-old John Edwards, who died days after a house fire in Holyhead Road, Wednesbury. Gorrell also pleaded not guilty to arson with intent to endanger life and three counts of attempted murder concerning Doreen Edwards, Mark Edwards, and Carl Edwards, who were seriously injured in the fire. The fire occurred in the early hours of May 11, and John Edwards passed away in hospital on May 25. Judge Simon Ward set a provisional trial date for January 28, 2026, with a pre-trial hearing scheduled for November 7, emphasizing the importance of Gorrell's presence at the trial. Gorrell, currently held on remand at HMP Birmingham, was advised to work closely with his legal team to prepare for the upcoming trial. The case revolves around the fatal fire and the injuries sustained by the other occupants of the property.