Abbotsford BC 2026 Homicide Victim List
Canada Homicide Map 2026

Police in Abbotsford were called to a fire at a homeless encampment along the 31500 block of South Fraser Way, on provincial land in the Peardonville area on April 24th at approximately 6:09 p.m. 

When officers arrived, they secured the scene and found the blaze was contained to a single wooden structure. After crews from Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service extinguished the fire, a man was discovered dead inside. Investigators have since confirmed the case is being treated as a homicide.

One suspect was taken into custody at the scene by patrol officers and remains under arrest.

Authorities say the investigation is still in its early stages, with additional resources being brought in to help piece together what happened. Police also emphasized that this appears to be a targeted incident and there is no ongoing risk to the public.

On April 25, 2026, the BC Prosecution Service (BCPS) approved a manslaughter charge against 49-year-old Ryan Easton in connection with the death of a 47-year-old victim. Investigators have stated they believe the incident was isolated and that the individuals involved were known to each other.

Following additional investigative work by IHIT, the BCPS approved an upgraded charge of first-degree murder on May 14, 2026. Easton has also been charged with arson involving a wooden structure, with allegations that he knew — or was reckless to the fact — that the building was occupied at the time of the fire.

Easton remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court again on May 26, 2026.