A male youth faces a second-degree murder charge after an incident in Chatham on Richmond Street late Friday night.
At approximately 10:45 pm, Chatham-Kent police attended the address, located near the intersection at Queen Street, concerning a disturbance.
“A male youth was located with serious injuries and transported to hospital,” police stated in a release Saturday afternoon. “Despite life-saving efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased.
Through investigation, a male youth was identified, arrested and charged with second-degree murder. He was demanded into custody with a short date.
“Due to the ages of the parties involved there will be no further information released at this time,” police added. “This is an isolated incident and there is no concern for public safety.”
The area had been blocked off to traffic for the investigation, with the barriers eventually removed Saturday morning. However, the multi-unit residence remained taped off, with a police presence still at the scene.
Cathy McCourt has lived in the neighborhood for 13 years and said more than a half-dozen police vehicles attended that night.
She saw the individual taken to hospital, but didn’t have further details on what happened.
McCourt said there have been a number of issues in the area over the years.
“When it’s close by your house, it doesn’t feel right,” she said. “I hardly slept last night.”
Members of the major crime section are continuing their investigation. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Const. Paul Brophy at [email protected], or 519-436-6600 ext. 619.
This is the second ugly homicide charge this month in Chatham.
On Oct. 7, a 28-year-old man, identified in court documents as Randall Rouse, died in hospital from injuries allegedly suffered during a fight at a Colborne Street residence.
Marvin Garraway, 35, was charged with second-degree murder.
Police said at the time this was also an isolated incident, with no concern for public safety.