Home / Crime and Justice / Sepsis Victim's Memorial Bench Torched
Sepsis Victim's Memorial Bench Torched
20 Jul
Summary
- Daughter died of sepsis just weeks after a sore throat.
- Memorial bench for daughter destroyed by fire.
- Police are investigating the incident as an arson attempt.
A mother's grief has been compounded by the destruction of a memorial bench dedicated to her daughter, Bethannie Booth, who tragically passed away from sepsis at the age of 24. The bench, situated in parkland near the family's home in Abercanaid, was deliberately set on fire in the early hours of July 14th, leaving little more than charred remains.
Bethannie Booth succumbed to sepsis in 2023, just weeks after developing a sore throat which was later found to be strep A, leading to a collapsed lung and septic shock. Her mother, Leanne Booth, described the moment she learned of the bench's destruction as a devastating re-living of her daughter's final moments. South Wales Police are actively investigating the incident as an arson attempt.
Merthyr Tydfil council has pledged to remove the damaged remnants and install a new bench within the coming months. The community has expressed widespread shock and sorrow over the disrespectful act, with many struggling to comprehend the motive behind such a destructive act targeting a place of remembrance.
