A 24-year-old man charged with the murder of Lucas Scutt following last month’s fatal house fire in Cowes has appeared before Southampton Magistrates’ Court today (Saturday).
Liam Matthews, of Spinnaker Road, Cowes, appeared in the dock charged with the murder of 24-year-old Lucas Scutt during the early hours of Friday, 26th June.
He also faces a charge of arson with intent to endanger life, as well as failing to comply with a Section 49 notice to disclose the key to protected information, such as the password to a mobile device.
As previously reported by Island Echo, emergency services were called to Ronsons Close, Cowes, at 03:32 on the morning of 26th June following reports of a house fire. Although 2 people escaped the blaze, Lucas Scutt was found dead inside an upstairs bedroom after around 30 firefighters from the Isle of Wight, Cosham and Southsea brought the fire under control.
During this morning’s brief court hearing, Matthews confirmed his name, age and address before the charges were read to him. He appeared in the dock wearing a black Adidas T-shirt and a Nike hoodie over his shoulders.
He appeared calm and looked straight ahead at the judge whilst in the dock. He spoke clearly and ensured he was heard when addressed by the court.
The defendant’s family travelled across the Solent this morning for the 3-minute hearing, where they watched on emotionally from the public gallery.
When being escorted from the dock, Matthews took a long look at his family, going on to raise his right hand as he walked past them in what felt like a wave goodbye.
As murder is an indictable-only offence, the case could only be dealt with administratively by magistrates before being sent to the Crown Court.
Liam Matthews was remanded in custody and is due to appear before Portsmouth Crown Court on 14th July for a plea and trial preparation hearing.
