Friend of slain pregnant woman vows to fund dignified funeral

Maryjane Haggerty, who shared more than 25 years of friendship with Samantha Natalie Phythian, has pledged to assist the bereaved family in arranging a respectful burial. Phythian, aged 35 and pregnant, was discovered deceased inside a vehicle in Prestatyn, Denbighshire, on October 4. A court hearing established that the expectant mother remained alive when the blaze began.

Best friend of pregnant Brit Samantha Natalie Phythian, 35, pays emotional tribute after she was found dead in van fire. Thomas Bell charged with murder.

Court proceedings and charges

Thomas Bell, 38, residing at Wellington Road in Rhyl, appeared before Mold Crown Court facing murder charges related to Phythian’s death. He has been remanded into custody pending further legal steps. Prosecutors informed the court that Bell knew the victim, who hailed from Rhyl. According to reports by Need To Know, Bell denies having ignited the vehicle.

Best friend of pregnant Brit Samantha Natalie Phythian, 35, pays emotional tribute after she was found dead in van fire. Thomas Bell charged with murder.

Lifelong bond and memories

Haggerty described her late companion as her “loudest” mate and expressed deep sorrow over the horrific manner of her passing. She emphasized her commitment to supporting Phythian’s grieving relatives, stating that Sammi deserved to be sent off in the best possible way. Reflecting on their childhood, Haggerty recalled wild adventures, including watching films such as Pearl Harbor, Kidulthood, and Save the Last Dance at Phythian’s home.

Best friend of pregnant Brit Samantha Natalie Phythian, 35, pays emotional tribute after she was found dead in van fire. Thomas Bell charged with murder.

The pair also enjoyed karaoke sessions singing tracks by Celine Dion and Mariah Carey, along with consuming vodka Red Bulls. Haggerty remembered getting “leathered on the fair causing mayhem,” noting these experiences would remain with her forever. She specifically recounted the day Phythian gave birth to her son, Noah. Haggerty said she was shocked when Phythian called her to the hospital, unaware she was in full labor despite thinking she had only a stomach ache.

Final tribute and fundraising effort

Haggerty stated she would give anything to hear Phythian’s voice shout “MJ that’s my best mate that” one last time. She found comfort in believing her friend is now reunited with her father, Barry, whose loss Phythian never fully recovered from. The two friends first met outside the Sandy Bay when they were approximately eight years old. Their final interaction occurred about three weeks prior, when Haggerty prepared jam on toast and hot chocolate for Phythian at work.

A public appeal has been initiated to cover funeral costs for Phythian. The campaign characterizes her as an “outgoing, lively, and full-of-life personality” who brought light to those around her. Organizers noted the unbearable pain of losing someone so precious under devastating circumstances. Funds raised will help the family provide the send-off Phythian deserved. At the time of reporting, the initiative had collected £2,834 toward its £5,000 goal.