Durham Regional Police – Suspect Facing Manslaughter Charges After Fire Investigation in Courtice (Name Released)
A male is facing manslaughter charges following a fire investigation in Courtice.
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, at approximately 10:35 p.m., members of East Division responded to an assist fire call at a residence in the area of Nash Road and Varcoe Road. Upon arrival, officers and Clarington Emergency and Fire Services found the residence fully engulfed in flames.
A deceased male, identified as 78-year-old Gerald (Gerry) Schad, was located inside the home. A post-mortem examination determined that Mr. Schad died as a result of the fire.
On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the accused was located using an improvised electronic ignition device to start a residential fire in the area of Townline Road North and Nash Road in Courtice. The residence was occupied at the time but no occupants suffered any physical injuries.
Further investigation by the East Division Criminal Investigations Branch (CIB) and Homicide Unit linked the accused to the Nash Road and Varcoe Road fire, which the accused is believed to have started.
At the time of these incidents, the accused was on conditions not to possess any incendiary devices.
Matthew Bryce Shawn JONES, age 23 from Oshawa is charged with: Manslaughter, Arson – Disregard for Human Life x2, Mischief Under $5000 x2, Breach Probation x2, and Prowl at Night.
He was held for a bail hearing.
Anyone with cell phone, dash cam, surveillance footage or information about this incident is asked to contact the Det. Stewart of the Homicide Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5416.
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