80 year old man in court charged with murder following Swansea car fire
David Clarke appeared before Swansea Crown Court for a hearing.
Last updated 26th Sep 2023
A man has appeared in court charged with murder following an incident on Sketty Lane, Swansea.
Officers with South Wales Police were called just after 8.20am on Friday 22nd September by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service to a report of a black Honda Jazz car on fire.
Emergency services attended and a man and woman were taken to hospital with burns.
Police say 77-year-old Helen Clarke died on Sunday evening in Morriston Hospital. Her family are being supported by specialist officers.
80-year-old David Clarke has been charged with murder.
He appeared via video-link at Swansea Crown Court on Tuesday morning and spoke only to confirm his details.
Another hearing has been set for November.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Raikes said:” Our thoughts remain with Helen’s family at this incredibly painful time. Detectives continue to work alongside other specialists to understand the full circumstances behind this incident.”
Helen’s family have issued the following statement: “Our families are trying to come to terms with the tragic passing of a mother, grandmother, and friend in un-characteristic circumstances.
"We are working with the police to ensure that responsible parties are sound of mind and held accountable. We request that we are given the privacy to deal with this tragedy as a family.”
Detectives are asking anyone who may have been in the area of Sketty Lane between 8am and 8.30am on Friday to get in touch saying they're keen to hear from anyone who has dashcam footage.