A 38-year-old man has been charged with murder after a single-vehicle collision in The Blue Mountains, Ont.
Ontario Provincial Police said that on Jan. 26 at around 5:55 a.m., a grey Mitsubishi Outlander SUV was travelling northbound on Arrowhead Road, just south of Highway 26, when it left the roadway.
Police said the vehicle continued down an embankment and when it came to a stop, it caught on fire.
According to police, a deceased person was found inside the vehicle.
Officers have identified the deceased as 40-year-old Ashley Schwalm from Collingwood.
Police said on Thursday, 38-year-old James Schwalm from Collingwood was arrested.
He has been charged with second-degree murder and indignity to a dead body.
A source told Global News the accused was a fire captain with Brampton Fire and Emergency Services.
In a statement Friday, the City of Brampton said it was made aware that an employee within the Fire and Emergency Services was arrested and charged with second degree murder and another charge by the OPP.
“This is an ongoing investigation, and the matter has not yet been proven in court,” the statement read.
The city said the employee “has been notified of their termination for cause in accordance with the Collective Agreement and the Fire Protection and Prevention Act.”
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the impacted family and friends, and those grieving the loss during this very difficult time,” the statement read. “As this matter is before the courts, the City cannot provide further comment.”
Police said the accused was held for a bail hearing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
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