Abbotsford – MAY 15 UPDATE – As a result of further efforts by IHIT investigators, on May 14, 2026, 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.
Mr. 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.”
Background:
On April 24, 2026, 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.
APRIL 26 UPDATE – 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. Mr. Easton remains in custody pending his next court appearance. Investigators believe this to be an isolated incident where parties were known to each other.
“Thanks to the swift response of the Abbotsford Police and the subsequent teamwork with IHIT investigators, we submitted evidence to the BCPS which led to charges being laid within 24-hours of the incident,” says Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT. “IHIT extends its condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased.”
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
ORIGINAL STORY – At approximately 6PM Friday evening (April 24) Abbotsford Police patrol officers responded to a report of a fire at the Peardonville homeless encampment located on provincial land within the 31500 block of South Fraser Way.
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. Further investigation has confirmed this incident to be a homicide. One man has been arrested by AbbyPD Patrol officers and remains in police custody.
The investigation is ongoing and remains in the early stages, with additional resources supporting efforts to fully understand the circumstances involved. AbbyPD can confirm this was an isolated and targeted incident and the public is not at risk.
The Abbotsford Police Department’s Major Crime Unit is transitioning the investigation to the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT), which will be providing further updates as the investigation advances.
Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the IHIT Infoline at 1-877-551-4448.
Abbotsford Police File 2026-17323
