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Murdered pregnant woman dies from smoke inhalation in van fire
Inquest reveals 35-year-old pregnant woman died of smoke and gas inhalation after van was set alight.
In brief
Inquest reveals 35-year-old pregnant woman died of smoke and gas inhalation after van was set alight. Samantha Phythian, 35, died from smoke and gas inhalation after being set alight in a burning van in Prestatyn, North Wales. Originally reported by Dailymail.
Samantha Phythian, 35, found dead in burning van
Samantha Phythian, 35, known as Sammi, was discovered inside a burning van in Prestatyn, North Wales.
Body identified five days after fire
Her body was discovered following a fire on Gas Works Lane on October 4, but she was not formally identified until five days later.
Inquest reveals cause of death
An inquest heard Samantha Phythian died of smoke and gas inhalation, with a post-mortem examination confirming the cause.
Victim was pregnant at time of death
North Wales Police confirmed Samantha Phythian was pregnant when she died in the van fire.
Thomas Matthew Hammond Bell charged with murder
Thomas Matthew Hammond Bell, 38, from Rhyl, has been charged with her murder and appeared in court via video link.
Bell denies responsibility for death
Bell's barrister Simon Killeen indicated he denied responsibility for Samantha Phythian's death.
Second man arrested in connection
A second man, aged 47, was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson and possession with intent to supply drugs.
Family appeals for end to speculation
Samantha's family has appealed for an end to online speculation and warned it adds to their distress.
Local councillor calls incident unprecedented
Councillor Gerry Frobisher described the incident as unprecedented in Prestatyn, a safe seaside community.
Victim's family describes her impact
Samantha's family described her as 'a much loved Mum, daughter, sister, Auntie and friend' with memories that will never be forgotten.
Police investigation ongoing
North Wales Police confirmed the ongoing police investigation into Samantha Phythian's death.
Provisional trial date set for April 2027
Bell is scheduled for a provisional three-week trial in April next year, with a plea and trial preparation hearing in January.
Victim pronounced dead by paramedic
Samantha Phythian was pronounced dead by a paramedic at 11:30pm on the night of the blaze.
Home Office pathologist confirms cause
Home Office pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers determined Samantha Phythian died from 'inhalation of smoke and fire gases'.
No fixed address at time of death
Samantha Phythian had been of no fixed address at the time of her death.
Inquest adjourned pending police investigation
The inquest was adjourned pending the outcome of the ongoing police investigation.
At a glance
Samantha Phythian, 35, died from smoke and gas inhalation after being set alight in a burning van in Prestatyn, North Wales.
