Detectives say they are yet to identify the person found dead in the vehicle
Forensics teams remained at the scene on Monday afternoon(Image: Aaran Lennox)
A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a body was discovered in a burnt-out van. North Wales Police said a 38-year-old man has been arrested after the body was discovered in the vehicle on Gas Works Lane, Prestatyn, on Sunday evening.
Police are yet to identify the person who died. Detective Chief Inspector Zoie Dunkerley, of North Wales Police, said: “Our investigation is still in the early stages, and we are yet to identify the person that sadly died.
“Enquiries will continue over the coming days and an increased police presence will be visible in the area.
“I would encourage anyone who has any information that could help us, to make contact via our live webchat online or on 101, quoting ref. 26000816112.”
Emergency services arrived at the scene at around 11.30pm on Sunday, with firefighters battling the blaze while police and ambulance crews also attended.
On Monday morning police confirmed that a body had been recovered from the vehicle and that a murder inquiry had been launched, reports North Wales Live. Stay in the know by making sure you’re receiving our daily newsletter.
On Monday afternoon the area remained sealed off by police, with forensics teams working at the scene throughout the day. North Wales Police said a cordon would remain in place in the immediate area on Monday to allow officers to conduct their enquiries.
The discovery has shocked the town. Reacting to the tragedy, one resident said: “My thoughts go out to the person and their family, it’s heartbreaking at any time when someone dies.”
Another added: “This is tragic, thoughts go out with the family.”
Earlier on Monday, Detective Superintendent Chris Bell said: “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.”
DS Bell continued: “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.
“I would appeal to anyone who was in the Gas Works Lane are of Prestatyn between 10.45pm and 11.45pm yesterday and saw or heard anything unusual to contact us.”
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