Ex-husband arrested on suspicion of murder after mum found dead in house fire

14 February 2023 , 16:13

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Valentina, aged 40, tragically died following a fire at her home (Image: PA)

The ex-husband of a woman who was found dead following a house fire has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Detectives investigating the death of Valentina Cozma, 40, arrested Georgian Constantin, 42, in London this morning.

The victim died following a fire at her home in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, at about 3pm on February 9.

Staffordshire Police said that a post-mortem provided a provisional cause of death as inhalation of products of combustion.

Officers said inquiries were continuing, and police were continuing with reassurance patrols in the area.

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Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Adrian Webb, from the force’s Major and Organised Crime department, is appealing for anyone with information to come forward and help with the investigation.

Georgian Constantin has been arrested on suspicion of murder (Staffordshire Police / SWNS)

He was arrested in London this morning (Staffordshire Police / SWNS)

He said: "We are grateful for the community’s support during this investigation.

"Enquiries into Valentina’s tragic death continue and we remain keen to speak to witnesses who may have relevant information or material which could support the investigation, such as CCTV or dash cam footage.

"My thoughts remain with Valentina’s loved ones, in particular her young son, at this deeply traumatic time."

Valentina was found dead after a fire at her home (Stoke Sentinel/BPM Media)

Valentina's family has since paid tribute to her as a supportive, caring woman "who always tried to keep the family together".

In an emotional statement, Valentina's sister said: "Vali was the person I could talk to about anything.

"She offered me support whenever I needed it. She always tried to keep the family together.

"Being an older sister, she made sure we didn't lack anything, even if she didn't have a thing.

"She went through a lot of hard times, yet she never gave up.

A forensic tent was put up in an alleyway off Campbell Road (Stoke Sentinel/BPM Media)

"I am appealing for help from anyone who has details that could help in solving this case."

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Anyone with information can report it on the Major Incident Portal, selecting Staffordshire Police, Operation Cuda.

Alternatively, you can call 101 quoting incident 440 of 9 February. If you have information but want to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Chiara Fiorillo