A British woman accused of intentionally setting an elderly woman’s home on fire will face trial this week.

According to BBC, Elizabeth Vamplew, 77, died from burns and smoke inhalation after Karen Vamplew, 43, set the victim’s bungalow in Eton Court, Newark, Nottinghamshire, on fire in 2021. Vampley is now charged with murder, accused of setting fire to the elderly woman’s bed in an attempt to gain inheritance money.

During a trial at Leicester Crown Court, witness Amanda Ennells testified that she found it challenging to believe Vamplew intentionally caused the victim’s death. Jurors, however, listened as prosecutors laid out details regarding how Vamplew’s debt had been using Elizabeth’s bank account to support her lifestyle.

The court also heard that the day before the fire, the duo was spotted at a Santander bank, where a £5 limit had been imposed on the account. CCTV footage presented in court showed the defendant leaving her residence on King Street at approximately 00:35 GMT on the day of the fire.

Prosecutors said the defendant also had a key, an access code for Elizabeth’s residence, and a copy of Elizabeth’s will at her own home.

Although Elizabeth was recognized for smoking indoors, the court learned from an investigation that the fire originated from a “naked flame” at the foot of the bed, rather than from a dropped cigarette.

The trial continues. Check back for updates.

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