Police name woman who died in Prestatyn van fire as man appears at Mold Crown Court

A woman who died in a van fire in Prestatyn has been named by North Wales Police as 35-year-old Samantha Phythian from Rhyl.

Police said a post-mortem examination found Ms Phythian, known to her family as Sammi, was pregnant when she died.

Thomas Bell, 38, from Rhyl, was charged with murder on Wednesday evening.

He appeared at Mold Crown Court on Friday morning and was remanded to prison until his next court appearance.

Emergency services were called to a van on fire on Gas Works Lane at around 11.30pm on Sunday 4 October.

Ms Phythian’s family are being supported by specialist officers, the force said.

The family have asked for their privacy to be respected and have spoken of the pain caused by speculation and discussion on social media, police said.

In a tribute released by North Wales Police, the family said: “A much loved Mum, daughter, sister, Auntie and friend.

“Samantha, who everyone knows as Sammi, will be remembered for the special place she held in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved her.

“Her tragic and untimely death has left her family and friends devastated, struggling to come to terms with the loss of someone who meant so much to so many. No family should ever have to endure the pain of losing a loved one in such circumstances.

“While her life has been cruelly cut short, the memories she created, the love she gave and the lives she touched will never be forgotten. She will forever be cherished by those who loved her, and she will be deeply missed.

“As a family we would like to ask people to be mindful and respectful of rumours circulating over social media platforms at this devastating time.”

Detective Chief Inspector Zoie Dunkerley, the senior investigating officer, said: “My thoughts are with Sammi’s family and friends. I would also urge the community to be careful of commenting anything which would add to the family’s distress or interfere with the ongoing active legal proceedings.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact North Wales Police through its live webchat or on 101, quoting reference 26000816112.