Man in court on fire murder charge (From St Helens Star)

Man in court on fire murder charge

3:45pm Friday 15th June 2007 in News By Chris Amery

A MAN has appeared in court today (Friday, June 15) charged with the murder of 20-year-old Monika Szmecht, who died from horrific burns.

Anthony Clarke (26), of Liverpool, a former boyfriend of the victim, appeared before District Judge Ian Lomax at St Helens Magistrates' Court this afternoon.

He was arrested on Tuesday night (June 12) and was today charged by police with the murder of Monika, of Wellesbourne Place in Norris Green.

Shortly after 9pm on Monday night (June 11), Monika, who police say was originally from eastern Europe, knocked on the door of a cottage on Blindfoot Road in Rainford, suffering from severe burns.

The occupants raised the alarm and she was taken to Whiston Hospital, where she later died.

Clarke, of Halsey Crescent in West Derby, Liverpool, has been remanded in custody until Monday, July 2, when he will appear at Liverpool Crown Court for a preliminary hearing.