John Street Fire - Photo by Emily Chatwood / myFM News
Andrew Thompson, accused of murdering Walter Lasher in the John Street rooming house fire this past summer, faced additional charges during a court appearance in Napanee on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. The 36-year-old was brought from Central East Correctional Centre in Lindsay to appear before Justice Geoffrey Griffin at the Ontario Court of Justice.
Thompson’s lawyer, Peter Zaduk, appeared by video, unaware his client would be present in person. Confusion arose when the Crown confirmed new charges, including arson causing bodily harm. Justice Griffin clarified Thompson now faces a single count of first-degree murder after the second-degree charge was withdrawn.
The charges stem from events on August 3, 2024, involving multiple victims. The court set Thompson’s preliminary hearing for May 2025, to be held in person.
Zaduk told the court he will meet with Thompson to discuss the charges. The case has drawn significant attention due to its severity and procedural missteps.