Bell appeared via video link and spoke only to confirm his name.
Judge Geraint Walters confirmed that Samantha died as a result of the fire.
He said: “At the time of ignition the person was alive. Someone set the van alight and the person was alive and was killed as a result of the fire.”
Emergency services were called to reports of a vehicle fire at 23:30 BST on Sunday close to an industrial estate and retail park in the centre of the town.
In a tribute issued on Friday, Samantha’s family described her as a “much-loved mum, daughter, sister, auntie and friend”.
Known to everyone as Sammi, they said she would be “remembered for the special place she held in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved her”.
They said: “No family should ever have to endure the pain of losing a loved one in such circumstances.
“She will forever be cherished by those who loved her, and she will be deeply missed.”
