From Dailymail · · 1m 50s
Woman found in burning van after being 'murdered' was pregnant
Woman found in burning van was pregnant and could have been alive when fire started.
In brief
Woman found in burning van was pregnant and could have been alive when fire started. 35-year-old Samantha Phythian, pregnant, was found in burning van in Prestatyn, North Wales, and could have been alive when fire began. Originally reported by Dailymail.
Woman found in burning van
A 35-year-old woman was found in a burning van in Prestatyn, North Wales.
Woman was pregnant
Post-mortem examinations revealed she was pregnant at the time of her death.
Could have been alive
Police believe the victim was alive when the van fire started.
Arrested for murder
Thomas Bell, 38, from Rhyl, was arrested on Monday, October 5, and charged with murder.
Court appearance
He appeared at Mold Crown Court on Friday via videolink and was remanded in custody.
Judge's statement
The judge said the victim was alive at the time or sufficiently alive and killed as a result of the arson.
Case timeline
The case was adjourned to January for a plea and trial preparation hearing with a potential trial date in April next year.
Family tribute
Her family described her as a 'much-loved mum, daughter, sister, auntie and friend'.
Family statement
The family said her tragic death left them devastated and struggling to come to terms with the loss.
Family request
They asked people to be mindful and respectful of rumors circulating over social media.
Detective chief inspector
Detective Chief Inspector Zoie Dunkerley urged the community to be careful of comments that would add to the family's distress.
Council statement
Councillor Gerry Frobisher said this type of incident has never occurred in Prestatyn before.
Council reassurance
He believed Prestatyn is a safe place to be and expressed thoughts for the family and friends.
What matters most
35-year-old Samantha Phythian, pregnant, was found in burning van in Prestatyn, North Wales, and could have been alive when fire began.
