Thurcroft man doused wife in white spirit and set fire to her, murder trial is told

Stephen Eastwood, 55, is alleged to have attacked his wife Angela at their Sycamore Drive home on 27th December last year.

Angela Eastwood, 56, suffered severe burns to her face, neck and chest and respiratory problems. She died in hospital on 31st December.

Bryan Cox, prosecuting, told the court that the couple, who had been married for 10 years, had been at home together on 27th December when an argument started.

“The defendant left the hallway where the row was taking place and made his way to the garage and took from it a bottle of white spirit,” he said.

“He returned to the hall. Angela was wearing pyjamas and a dressing gown. He doused her in white spirit and put a naked flame to that white spirit.”

“Flames engulfed her neck and face causing severe burns. She also inhaled the products of combustion which caused damage to her respiratory tract.”

The court heard Eastwood drove his wife to Rotherham hospital at around 6pm that evening.

Mrs Eastwood was transferred to Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital later that night for further treatment. On 31st December her condition went quickly downhill and she passed away.

Eastwood denies murder and the trial continues.