A woman killed alongside her niece in a house fire had her “most beautiful wedding” just nine months earlier, her family said. Natalie McDonald, 34, and Valentina Foster, seven, died after a blaze at a property in Grangetown, near Middlesbrough.
Family tribute to 'heart and soul of our street'
In a statement released by Cleveland Police, Natalie's family said she had been known as Natalie Louise Kirton until she married Anthony McDonald nine months ago. They said: “She had the biggest, most beautiful wedding; she sparkled like the shining beauty she was. She was loved by everyone, she was bright, bubbly and full of life, the heart and soul of our street and community, loved by all.”
“Her family has lost its beautiful, kind soul. She was the life and soul of every party, and she will be sadly missed by our family, her two brothers and sister, all who are broken. Her nieces and nephews, with her being such a big part of their lives, being like a second mother to them. Her nana, grandad, mam and dad are all heartbroken. Also, her only daughter who will forever miss her mam.”
Court appearance over murder charges
Jaden Wright, 23, made his first appearance before a crown court judge charged with murdering Natalie and Valentina. He did not enter pleas at a 10-minute hearing at Teesside Crown Court on Thursday, where he faced charges of two counts of murder, two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.
Four other people were injured in the fire, which happened at about 5.30am on August 26. Richard Wright KC, prosecuting, said a trial was expected to last three weeks. Judge Jonathan Carroll set a trial start date of April 14.
Remand and niece's family statement
Wright was remanded in custody ahead of a hearing on September 23 when he is expected to enter pleas. Earlier this week Valentina's family released a statement which said: “It is with overwhelming sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that our beloved daughter has passed away. She was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words by her family, friends and everyone whose life she touched.”
