A childminder from Manchester has appeared in court charged with the murder of her four-year-old daughter, who tragically died in a house fire at their family home last year.
Court Appearance and Serious Charges
Carrin Wibier, 45, of Rusholme, Manchester, made a brief appearance at Manchester Magistrates' Court on Wednesday via video link from custody. She faces two grave charges: the murder of her daughter, Lesma-Rose Wibier, and arson with intent to endanger life. The fatal blaze occurred at their home on March 2 last year.
During the short hearing, Wibier spoke only to confirm her name, address, and date of birth. District Judge Jane Hamilton informed her that the matters were indictable-only and must be dealt with by the crown court. She was further remanded and appeared at Manchester Crown Court the following day, Thursday.
A Family's Tragic Loss
The victim, four-year-old Lesma-Rose, was inside the red-brick house when the fire broke out. Described by grieving relatives as the 'star of the family', she suffered serious injuries in the incident.
Emergency services, including crews from four Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service stations, quickly attended and extinguished the blaze. The young girl was rushed to hospital by paramedics but, tragically, died a short time later.
In a heartbreaking tribute released at the time, her family said: 'Lesma-Rose was the star of the family. Anyone who knew her knew she was the most beautiful girl inside and out. She always had a smile on her face and could put the same on others. She was such a smart and intelligent girl in her own unique ways, and she will be deeply missed by anyone who was blessed to meet her.'
Background and Aftermath
Wibier, the accused, is a qualified professional in early years education. She graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University in 2011 after completing a three-year undergraduate course in Primary Education, Early Childhood Education and Teaching. Furthermore, she served as a parent governor representative on Manchester City Council's Young People and Children Committee from 2015 to 2016.
In the wake of the fire, evidence of smoke damage was visible on the upstairs windows of the property. Ben Levy, area manager for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, expressed his condolences, stating: 'I want to pass on the condolences of everyone at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service to the family and friends of the young girl who tragically lost her life following this incident.'
The case continues at Manchester Crown Court.
