Police investigate suspected arson at memorial in Abercanaid
A suspected arson attack has destroyed a memorial bench dedicated to 24-year-old Merthyr Tydfil woman Bethannie Booth, who died from complications related to sepsis in 2023. The bench, positioned in parkland close to the family’s home in Abercanaid, was left badly charred in the early hours of Tuesday 14 July. South Wales Police said they are continuing to investigate reports of an attempted arson at around 04:00 BST.
Bethannie’s mother, Leanne Booth, said she was heartbroken after learning the memorial had burned. She described the shock of seeing the damage, including the plaque dedicated to her daughter, which she said had been badly affected. Council staff were making the area safe when she reached the spot.
“It took me right back to when I witnessed her taking her last breath… It was like somebody had put their hand into my chest, squeezed my heart and ripped it out, and stamped all over it again. I just broke down.”
The bench had been installed about two years ago at a place the family said mattered to Bethannie, where she had often played as a child. Her mother said the quiet corner of the park held treasured memories and had offered a peaceful space for those who knew her to sit and reflect.
Recalling the outpouring of support from neighbours and friends since her daughter’s death, Leanne said the damage has touched many people locally. She called the act disrespectful and expressed sympathy for those responsible, reflecting on the harm done not only to her family but to a wider community that has used the memorial as a place to remember Bethannie.
“It’s just disrespectful… I don’t understand the mentality of anybody getting a kick out of doing this. The whole community is devastated.”
What we know so far
- The fire was reported in the early hours of Tuesday 14 July, around 04:00 BST.
- South Wales Police say they are continuing to investigate reports of an arson attempt at the memorial bench.
- The bench stood in parkland near the family home in Abercanaid and was put in place approximately two years ago.
- The installed plaque to Bethannie was among items damaged in the blaze.
About Bethannie and sepsis
Bethannie died in 2023 after a short illness that began with a sore throat. Doctors found she had strep A and a collapsed lung before she developed sepsis. She died with her family by her side. Sepsis is a serious condition that occurs when the body’s immune system, which usually protects us from infection, starts to harm the body’s own tissues and organs. Health services warn it can be triggered by infections.
The bench became a focal point for remembrance, with tributes including a wreath made by Leanne. Its location was carefully chosen to reflect Bethannie’s connection to the area from childhood, and relatives have spoken of the calm and beauty of the spot. Local people say they are distressed by the damage and have offered support to the family.
Timeline
| Year/Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Death of Bethannie Booth following sepsis |
| ~2024 | Memorial bench installed in Abercanaid parkland |
| 14 July (04:00) | Police receive reports of arson attempt at the bench |
Community response and next steps
The incident has prompted anger and sadness in Abercanaid, with neighbours expressing solidarity with the Booth family. The council has moved to make the site safe, and the investigation by South Wales Police continues. Anyone with knowledge of activity in the area during the early hours of Tuesday is urged, in general, to report information that could assist the inquiry through official channels.
For the Booth family, the loss of the bench is more than damage to wood and metal. It is a blow to a place crafted for quiet remembrance. As the police investigation progresses, many in the community will be hoping the memorial can be restored and that those responsible are identified.
