On July 5, 2023, London police responded to a medical emergency at a home in the 500 block of Kingsway Avenue, where officers found 22-year-old Caitlin Jennings dead inside the residence.

A suspect was taken into custody at the scene without incident, and police confirmed there was no ongoing risk to the public. The investigation was later assigned to the London Police Service Major Crime Section.

Following the investigation, David Yates, 50, of London, was charged with second-degree murder. Police said Yates and Jennings knew each other. He remained in custody following his arrest and appeared in a London courtroom to face the charge.

Murder Trial Hears David Yates’ Testimony

David Yates’ second-degree murder trial continued this week with prosecutors challenging his claim that he acted in self-defense during the July 2023 death of his 22-year-old girlfriend, Caitlin Jennings.

Yates admitted striking Jennings multiple times with a hammer but testified he did not believe her injuries were life-threatening or that the confrontation would end in her death. Medical evidence presented at trial showed Jennings suffered multiple blunt-force injuries, and prosecutors argued Yates failed to seek medical help before calling 911 two days later.

The jury also viewed photos comparing the injuries sustained by Yates and Jennings. During emotional testimony, Yates broke down while discussing Jennings’ death, and prosecutors introduced journal entries in which he wrote, “I just killed my friend.”

He has pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder, and closing arguments are scheduled for July 16 2026