A 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a body was found inside a burning van in Prestatyn, North Wales. Emergency services were called to Gas Works Lane at around 11.30pm on Sunday, with firefighters tackling the blaze as police and ambulance crews attended.
Body recovered and murder investigation launched
Police confirmed on Monday morning that a body had been recovered from the vehicle and a murder investigation was underway. The person found dead inside has not yet been identified as detectives continue their enquiries.
Detective Chief Inspector Zoie Dunkerley, of North Wales Police, said: "Our investigation is still in the early stages, and we are yet to identify the person that sadly died. Enquiries will continue over the coming days and an increased police presence will be visible in the area."
Appeal for witnesses
DCI Dunkerley added: "I would encourage anyone who has any information that could help us, to make contact via our live webchat online or on 101, quoting ref. 26000816112."
Earlier on Monday, Detective Superintendent Chris Bell said: "Officers are working at pace to identify the person. Once the identity is known, specialist trained officers will be assigned to support their family as soon as possible."
Community reaction and ongoing cordon
DS Bell also said: "We understand this incident may cause concern within the local community, and I would like to reassure the public that there is a visible policing presence in the area. I would appeal to anyone who was in the Gas Works Lane area of Prestatyn between 10.45pm and 11.45pm yesterday and saw or heard anything unusual to contact us."
The area remained cordoned off on Monday afternoon as forensic officers continued working at the scene. Police said the cordon would stay in place in the immediate area while enquiries were carried out. Residents in the town have spoken of their shock following the discovery. One resident said: "My thoughts go out to the person and their family, it's heartbreaking at any time when someone dies." Another said: "This is tragic, thoughts go out with the family."
