TORONTO — Police have charged a two people in connection with the death of a man during a house fire in May.
Police responded to a fire at a home in the Dupont Street and Perth Avenue area just after midnight on May 17.
Police said that the fire was not considered an accident after a “lengthy” investigation that involved the Ontario Fire Marshall.
The victim was identified as 43-year-old Paul Ventura of Toronto. Police could not confirm details on how the man died and whether it was a direct result of the fire.
When officers arrived, the second floor of a three-storey building was engulfed in flames. Firefighters pulled the body of Ventura from the top floor of the building after battling the blaze.
The five other residents got out of the house safely.
Police said the suspect visited Ventura’s apartment at 1569 Dupont St. and set fire to the residence.
John Jackman, 47, of Toronto was arrested on Wednesday and charged with first degree murder and arson with disregard for human life.
Police also arrested and charged 43-year-old Lulieta Dalipi of Toronto with accessory after the fact to murder and attempting to obstruct justice.
Both were scheduled to appear in separate courts in Toronto on Thursday.
Police said the investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at http://www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637).
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