A YOUNG girl and her aunt were allegedly murdered in a house fire despite a desperate bid to save them, an inquest heard.
Valentina Foster and Natalie McDonald, 34, tragically died in the blaze in Grangetown, near Middlesbrough, on August 26.
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Jaden Wright, 23, has been charged with two counts of murder, two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and two charges of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.
The charges relate to the six people in the house, two of whom cannot be named due to their age.
An inquest opening heard today how heroic members of the public attempted to save Valentina and her family.
Teesside coroner Paul Appleton said: “Very sadly, Valentina was recovered from the property and was subsequently pronounced deceased at the James Cook University Hospital.”
He said a post-mortem examination revealed the cause of death was the effects of fire.
Valentina’s body was identified by her mother, who attended today’s hearing.
Natalie, who was declared dead at the scene, was identified from her dental records and a tattoo.
The coroner adjourned the full inquest pending criminal proceedings.
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Wright, who faces a separate charge of intentional strangulation, has been remanded into custody.
Detectives are not linking the blaze to the wrong-way crash on the A66, Cleveland Police previously said.
Seven people, including two police officers, were killed in the horror – sparking a wave of violence in Middlesbrough.
In a statement released by police, Natalie’s family said she had been married for just nine months.
They added: “She had the biggest, most beautiful wedding; she sparkled like the shining beauty she was.
“She was loved by everyone, she was bright, bubbly and full of life, the heart and soul of our street and community, loved by all.
“Her family has lost its beautiful, kind soul.”
Valentina’s family added: “It is with overwhelming sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that our beloved daughter has passed away.
“She was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words by her family, friends and everyone whose life she touched.”