York Regional Police have laid murder charges against two people following a horrific house fire in Richmond Hill that claimed the lives of a young girl and a woman earlier this month.
The devastating blaze erupted on February 3rd at a residence near Yonge Street and Crosby Avenue, sending shockwaves through the quiet suburban community. Emergency crews responded to the scene around 1:30 a.m. to find the home engulfed in flames.
Tragic Loss of Life
When firefighters managed to bring the inferno under control, they made a heartbreaking discovery inside the charred remains of the property. The bodies of a 12-year-old girl and a 40-year-old woman were recovered from the wreckage, their lives tragically cut short.
Police have identified the victims as 12-year-old Alina and 40-year-old Diba. The relationship between the two victims has not been officially disclosed by authorities.
Suspects Charged
Following an intensive investigation, York Regional Police have charged 42-year-old Baktash Ghasemi and 38-year-old Sakina Ghasemi, both of Richmond Hill, with two counts each of first-degree murder.
The accused made their first court appearance in Newmarket on Thursday, though details about their relationship to the victims or potential motives remain undisclosed as the investigation continues.
Community in Mourning
The tragic incident has left the Richmond Hill community reeling, with neighbours expressing shock and disbelief that such violence could occur in their peaceful neighbourhood. The case has raised numerous questions about what led to the fatal fire.
York Regional Police's Homicide Unit continues to work diligently on the investigation, urging anyone with information to come forward. The exact cause of the fire and circumstances leading to the deaths remain under active investigation.
This case marks one of the most disturbing incidents of violence in the York Region area in recent months, highlighting the ongoing work of law enforcement to address serious crimes in the Greater Toronto Area.
