The 26-year-old man charged with the murder of pregnant 19-year-old Nikitta Grender has been remanded in custody by Caerphilly Magistrates’ Court.
Carl Whant, from Newport, did not enter a plea and spoke only to confirm his name. Asked to confirm his address, Whant shrugged his shoulders and his solicitor said he was now of “no fixed abode”.
The 26-year-old bouncer, who is also charged with child destruction, will now face Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday.
Miss Grender was attacked in her flat in Liswerry, Newport, on February 5. She was stabbed twice before her home was set on fire.
The family of Miss Grender, who was eight and a half months pregnant, were at the hearing.
According to national media reports, Whant is understood to be the second cousin of Miss Grender’s boyfriend Ryan Mayes.