A 16-YEAR-OLD boy has appeared in court accused of killing a man found dead in a burnt-out car.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with the manslaughter of 30-year-old Vilson Meshi some time between February 26 and 28.

Mr Meshi’s body was discovered in the back of a fire-damaged Audi A4 in Pincey Mead, Pitsea, on February 27 last year.

The teenager was further charged with stealing marine flares on February 20 - and committing arson between February 26 and 28, in which it is alleged that he set fire to Mr Meshi’s Audi.

The 16-year-old is also alleged to have stolen Mr Meshi’s Iphone and car keys.

The boy, who was 15 at time, appeared at Basildon Magistrates’ Court yesterday wearing a grey hooded top and a black jacket and he was supported by his father.

No pleas were entered at this stage and he was sent to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Thursday, March 16 for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

Barry Hargreaves, prosecuting, said: “He has been charged jointly with an adult on the charge of manslaughter, arson and theft who has already appeared in court, along with another adult.

“They were sent to crown court because the manslaughter is an indictable only offence.

“I would also ask for this matter to be sent to the crown court to be linked with the adults.”

The boy was given unconditional bail.

Keani Hobbs, 18, of Stagden Cross, Basildon, is jointly charged with manslaughter, arson and theft.

Melanie Hobbs, 46, also of Stagden Cross, Basildon, has been charged with assisting an offender.

She is alleged to have disposed of clothing belonging to suspects in the case, as well as other items – including a mobile phone and set of car keys belonging to Mr Meshi. Prosecutors allege this was “with intent to impede the apprehension or prosecution of suspects”.

Mr Meshi’s body was discovered after a neighbour raised concerns over the vehicle as it had not moved and had suffered some external damage.