The Chatham-Kent Police Service is acknowledging a decision by the Crown Attorney’s Office to appeal a court ruling in the prosecution of David William Thomas, who is charged in connection with a fatal 2022 residential fire in Chatham.
In an update released Friday, Nov. 13, police said the appeal will address whether certain evidence should be admissible at trial.
“The appeal process is an established component of that system and provides an opportunity for significant legal decisions to be reviewed and considered by a higher court,” the police service said.
Police emphasized that the appeal process provides an opportunity for legal rulings to be reviewed and significant questions of law to be considered through the judicial system.
“We are confident that our officers acted in accordance with their lawful duties and responsibilities,” the statement said.
As the matter is before the courts, police said it would be inappropriate to comment further on the appeal process.
The service added that it remains committed to supporting the judicial process and working with its justice partners as the case proceeds.
Police also acknowledged the ongoing impact of the proceedings on the victim’s family and loved ones, saying their thoughts remain with them and that they will continue supporting the family through the judicial process.
Thomas was charged following an investigation into a fatal residential fire at 149 Edgar St. in Chatham on June 25, 2022.
Emergency crews were called to the residence at approximately 3:50 a.m., where they located 22-year-old resident Bayli Sellars deceased.
The investigation involved the Chatham-Kent Fire Department, Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office, Regional Coroner’s Office, RCMP and Chatham-Kent police.
On May 7, 2024, a Canada-wide warrant was issued for Thomas, then 48, following the investigation.
He was arrested on May 24, 2024, in Fanny Bay, B.C., by Chatham-Kent police investigators and RCMP members before being transported to Chatham-Kent.
Thomas appeared in Chatham court on May 28, 2024, and was remanded into custody.
He was charged with first-degree murder, five counts of arson — disregard for human life, indignity to a body and arson — fraudulent purpose.
Published reports have identified Thomas as Sellars’ father.
