John Street Fire - Photo by Emily Chatwood / myFM News
Andrew James Thompson, a 31-year-old from Picton, is scheduled for a preliminary hearing in March 2025 after being charged with arson and murder in connection with a deadly fire in Napanee. The fire occurred on August 3, 2024, at a rooming house on John Street, claiming the life of 67-year-old resident Walter Lasher.
Thompson was arrested on August 9, 2024, by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Prince Edward County. He faces multiple charges, including murder, criminal harassment, arson with disregard for human life, and three counts of arson causing property damage.
Justice Geoffrey Griffin presided over Thompson’s October 1, 2024, appearance via video from Central East Correctional Centre. Thompson’s lawyer, Peter Zaduk, requested the preliminary hearing after receiving a large amount of disclosure information. The hearing is expected to last 2-3 days, focusing on witness testimony and video evidence presented by the Crown.
The purpose of the preliminary hearing is to determine if there is enough evidence to commit Thompson to trial. The fatal fire left the community of Napanee mourning the loss of Lasher, while authorities continue their investigation into the tragic incident. Thompson remains in custody pending further court proceedings.
Written by Ted Smith