Murder charge laid in fatal fire

KAWARTHA LAKES, Ont. – A second degree murder charge was laid Saturday following a fire at an Ontario group home last week that left one person dead. Ontario Provincial Police say the suspect, who can’t be identified under youth criminal justice laws, was being held in custody until a court appearance.

An autopsy was done Saturday and the person who died has been identified, but police say further information including age and gender isn’t being released to maintain the integrity of the investigation.

The group home is located near the village of Oakwood northeast of Toronto in the Kawartha Lakes region. A spokesperson said the other residents have been relocated while the police investigation continues.