Abbotsford police charged a 49-year-old man for the first degree murder Friday. The man remains in the police custody. The suspect is next scheduled to appear on May 26 in the court.

On April 24,  at approximately 6:09 p.m., Abbotsford Police patrol officers responded to a report of a fire at the Peardonville encampment in the 31500 block of South Fraser Way, Abbotsford.

Upon arrival, officers secured the scene and determined the fire was limited to a single wooden structure. Following fire suppression efforts by Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service, a man was found deceased. Initial investigation led police to suspect homicide. One man was arrested and taken into custody.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) deployed to Abbotsford and assumed conduct of the investigation.

IHIT continued to advance this investigation with support from the Abbotsford Police Department’s Major Crime Unit, Forensic Identification Services (FIS), and the BC Coroners Service.

On April 25, 2026, the BC Prosecution Service (BCPS) laid one count of manslaughter against 49-year-old Ryan Easton in relation to the death of the 47-year-old victim. Investigators believe this to be an isolated incident where parties were known to each other. 

As a result of further efforts by IHIT investigators, on May 14,  the BCPS approved an upgraded charge from manslaughter to first-degree murder. Mr. Easton has also been charged with one count of arson to a wooden structure, knowing or being reckless of the fact that the structure was occupied at the time.

 Easton remains in custody and is next scheduled to appear on May 26, 2026.

“We strive to collect the best evidence available rather than just sufficient evidence, and this case is a good example where our continued efforts led to upgraded charges,” says Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT. “IHIT continues to offer its support to those impacted by this incident.”