North Wales Police have launched a murder investigation after emergency services discovered a body inside a burning van in Denbighshire. The grim discovery was made late Sunday evening, prompting an immediate response from police and fire crews.
Emergency Response to Gas Works Lane Incident
Emergency services rushed to Gas Works Lane in Prestatyn at approximately 11:30 p.m. BST on Sunday following reports of a vehicle ablaze. Upon extinguishing the flames, firefighters and police officers found a body inside the burned-out van.
Because of the severe damage caused by the fire and the preliminary nature of the inquiry, authorities have not yet confirmed the identity of the deceased person. Detective Chief Inspector Zoie Dunkerley noted that the investigation remains in its early stages.
Arrest Made and Ongoing Police Inquiries
In connection with the incident, North Wales Police confirmed that a 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Officers have established a tight cordon around the scene on Gas Works Lane, and a heightened police presence is expected to remain in the area over the coming days as forensic teams and detectives gather evidence.
Detective Superintendent Chris Bell issued a statement regarding the ongoing efforts to identify the victim and support the local community:
“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. 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.”
Public Appeal for Information
Investigators are urging anyone who was in or around the Gas Works Lane area of Prestatyn between 10:45 p.m. and 11:45 p.m. on Sunday to come forward. Police are specifically looking for anyone who witnessed unusual activity, heard suspicious noises, or captured relevant dashcam or CCTV footage.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is encouraged to contact North Wales Police directly:
- Via the live chat service on the official North Wales Police website
- By calling the non-emergency number 101
- Anonymously through independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
Callers are advised to reference police log number 0163930 when submitting information regarding the Prestatyn van fire investigation.
