Second-degree murder charge laid in St. Thomas homicide

St. Thomas Police have announced a major development in a four-week old homicide and arson investigation.

Nathan Deleemans, 30, of St. Thomas, was arrested Monday and charged with second degree murder in connection to the death of 40 year old Victoria Dill.

He also faces charges of disregard for human life, Arson, and breaching a probation order.

Emergency crews were called to a multi-unit residents at Hiawatha and Curtis streets in the early morning hours of July 3.

At the time, neighbours told CTV News they heard gunfire in the building. A woman was then seen running from the building, ending up in a parking lot across the street — police say Dill was fatally shot.

Building superintendent Tom Burke said he often saw Deleemans around the building.

“I’m just happy he’s off the streets and our neighbourhood here can feel a little bit safer.

It’s still a tragedy what happened,” said Burke.

(Source: St. Thomas police)

In a separate but connected investigation, police are looking for a second man involved in the case.

“It just adds pieces to the puzzle,” said St. Thomas Police Media Spokesperson Samantha Wakefield. “There’s obviously two investigations happening, the arson and the homicide. Both are priority and both are being actively worked on,” she said.

Keegan Harvey, 21, of St. Thomas has been charged with one count of arson – disregard for human life and one count of accessory after the fact to murder.

Harvey is described as white, 5’10, with brown hair and an arm sleeve tattoo on his right arm. Police advise not to approach Harvey, but call 911 immediately if seen.

“If you know the location or whereabouts of our party Keegan Harvey we ask you to contact police or submit an anonymous tip through CRIMESTOPPERS,” said Wakefield.