Police in Cape Breton are investigating a suspicious fire that destroyed the home of a murder suspect.
Fire crews responded to the home on Oxford Avenue in Sydney Mines, N.S., early Friday morning. The home sustained significant damage and is set to be demolished this week.
Investigators say the fire is considered suspicious.
Witnesses say heavy smoke and flames could be seen coming through the home.
“Basically what happened was when I came out there was a guy running down the road,” says one witness, who didn’t want to be identified. “I don't know who he was. All dressed in black. Minutes later the fire was blazing, as you can see on the side of the house.”
CTV News has learned the home belongs to 35-year-old Kimberley Ann O’Dea, who is charged with second-degree murder in the death of her former partner, 28-year-old Dana Marie Jessome.
Jessome was struck by a vehicle on Oxford Avenue – not far from the burned-out home – on July 14 and police allege O’Dea was behind the wheel at the time.
Jessome was taken to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital with serious injuries and then transported to a Halifax hospital, where she died.
O’Dea continues to serve in a remand facility and is scheduled to attend a bail hearing on Friday. The Crown is opposing her release.
Meanwhile, a memorial remains at the end of Oxford Avenue, with flowers and messages marking the spot where Jessome was struck.
The neighbour says he knew both women for years and often heard arguing coming from the home. He says both women were friendly to him, and he is still in shock over the incident.
Cape Breton Regional Police say the fire marshal's office has not completed its investigation of the scene, and is waiting for a determination and referral before speaking publically on the matter.
With files from CTV Atlantic's Kyle Moore.
