Woman found dead in burning van was pregnant, police say

A woman found dead in a burning van was pregnant, police have confirmed.

The body of Samantha Natalie Phythian, 35, was discovered in the vehicle in Prestatyn, Denbighshire, on Sunday evening.

On Friday it was revealed in a court hearing that Samantha, from Rhyl, was alive when the fire started.

Thomas Bell, 38, from Wellington Road in Rhyl, appeared in Mold Crown Court charged with murder and was remanded in custody.

The court was told Samantha was known to Bell but he denies setting the vehicle alight.

Bell appeared via video link and spoke only to confirm his name.

Judge Geraint Walters confirmed that Samantha died as a result of the fire.

He said: "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."

Emergency services were called to reports of a vehicle fire at 23:30 BST on Sunday close to an industrial estate and retail park in the centre of the town.

In a tribute issued on Friday, Samantha's family described her as a "much-loved mum, daughter, sister, auntie and friend".

Known to everyone as Sammi, they said she would be "remembered for the special place she held in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved her".

They said: "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."

Adjourning proceedings, Walters said Bell would appear before him again at Caernarfon Crown Court at the end of November for a plea and preparation hearing.

A provisional date for a trial was set for the beginning of April 2027.