The shocking murder in Carmarthenshire took place on February 2, 1881. John Thomas, an 11-year-old boy from Kidwelly, was killed while delivering boots to a house in Mudlescombe. His body was discovered in the garden of the Masey family, with severe head injuries. Suspicion fell on Mrs. Masey and her two young sons, Benjamin, and David, who were arrested. An inquest returned a verdict of wilful murder against unknown persons.