Woman Found Dead in Burning Van Was Pregnant, Police Say
Samantha Phythian was alive when a van caught fire in Prestatyn, a court heard.
The body of Samantha Natalie Phythian was discovered in a burning vehicle in Prestatyn, North Wales, and she was alive when the fire started, a court has been told.
Emergency services were called to reports of a vehicle fire on Sunday at approximately 11:30 p.m. BST near an industrial estate and retail park in the center of the town. Phythian, known to friends and family as Sammi, was discovered deceased inside the vehicle.
During a video court appearance, a man identified as Bell spoke only to confirm his name. Judge Geraint Walters stated that Samantha died as a result of the fire. "At the time of ignition the person was alive. Someone set the van alight and the person was alive and was killed as a result of the fire," the judge said.
Samantha's family issued a tribute on Friday, describing her as a "much-loved mum, daughter, sister, auntie and friend." They added, "No family should ever have to endure the pain of losing a loved one in such circumstances. She will forever be cherished by those who loved her, and she will be deeply missed."