A manslaughter charge has been laid following a deadly fire at a homeless encampment in Abbotsford on Friday evening. The incident involved the death of a 47-year-old man after a structure fire in the Peardonville area.
Emergency crews were called to the 31500-block of South Fraser Way just before 6:10 p.m. When officers arrived, they found a single wooden structure fully involved in flames. Firefighters worked to bring the situation under control, but once the fire was extinguished, a man was discovered deceased inside the structure.
Authorities later confirmed that the investigation quickly moved from a fire response to a criminal case due to the circumstances surrounding the event.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) identified Ryan Easton, 49, as the individual charged in connection with the death. He was taken into custody and remains detained while awaiting his next court appearance.
Investigators stated that the evidence gathered at the scene, along with witness information and early forensic findings, led to the manslaughter charge being approved within 24 hours. Police have indicated that the case appears to be contained to the individuals involved, with no indication of wider risk to the public.
Officials also noted that the victim and the accused were known to one another prior to the incident.
The Abbotsford Police Department, working alongside fire crews, responded quickly after the initial emergency call. Their coordinated efforts allowed investigators to secure the scene and begin collecting evidence shortly after the fire was brought under control.
IHIT Sgt. Freda Fong credited the rapid cooperation between agencies for the swift progression of the case into the court system. Investigators continue to review physical evidence from the site as part of the ongoing process.
The identity of the deceased man has not been released publicly, pending further steps in the investigation and notification of next of kin.
This incident marks the second homicide connected to a homeless encampment in Abbotsford within a little over a month. In March, another fatal event occurred at a separate encampment, raising ongoing concerns about safety conditions in these areas.
Encampments across the region have been the focus of increased attention from local authorities, particularly in relation to fire risks, security issues, and the vulnerability of individuals living in temporary structures.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances that led to the fire, including how it started and what events preceded it. Additional updates are expected as court proceedings move forward and more details become available through the legal process.
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