The death of a pregnant woman found inside a burning van in Prestatyn was caused by inhaling smoke and fire gases, an inquest has heard. Samantha Natalie Phythian, known as Sammi, was discovered in the vehicle on Gas Works Lane on October 4, prompting a murder investigation.
Inquest opened in Ruthin
John Gittins, senior coroner for North Wales East and Central, opened the inquest at County Hall in Ruthin. The 35-year-old, from Rhyl, was pronounced dead by a paramedic at 11.30pm on the day she was found. She was identified through her DNA.
Home Office consultant pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers carried out a post mortem examination, giving the provisional cause of death as "inhalation of smoke and fire gases," reports North Wales Live. Ms Phythian, of no fixed address, was originally from Sheffield.
Family tribute and murder charge
Given that a man had been charged with murder, Mr Gittins opened and adjourned the inquest at the request of the Crown Prosecution Service. Last week, Ms Phythian's family paid tribute to a "much loved mum, daughter, sister, auntie and friend".
They said: "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."
Investigation ongoing
Friends, with the family's permission, have started a GoFundMe to give the North Wales mum the "send-off she deserves". Thomas Matthew Hammond Bell, 38, of Wellington Road, Rhyl, has been charged with murder. He will enter a formal plea on Friday, November 27, and a provisional trial date has been set for April next year.
Last week, police said a second man had been arrested in connection with the investigation. A 47-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson, and possession with intent to supply drugs. Detective Chief Inspector Zoie Dunkerley said: "Our investigations into this incident are moving at pace, and we are currently exploring every avenue of information open to us. I would like to thank those members of the community who have already contacted us, and ask that anyone else who has any information, however small, to contact us via our live webchat or on 101 quoting reference number 26000816112."
