On June 11, 2025, a residential fire near Primrose Court and Fairport Road in Pickering resulted in the discovery of a 69-year-old woman’s body, which was later ruled a homicide by Durham Regional Police. The investigation led to the arrest of a 34-year-old woman, Sandra Coutinho, charged with accessory after the fact to murder, while a second suspect remains at large. Authorities have assured the public that the incident appears isolated with no ongoing threat to community safety, and they continue to seek information from the public to assist in the case.
Details of the Fire and Discovery
In the early hours of June 11, 2025, emergency services responded to reports of a fire at a residence near the intersection of Primrose Court and Fairport Road in Pickering. Upon arrival, firefighters extinguished the blaze and discovered the body of a 69-year-old woman inside the home. Initial assessments indicated suspicious circumstances, prompting Durham Regional Police to initiate a homicide investigation.
Police Investigation and Arrest
The investigation swiftly identified potential links between the fire and foul play. Police conducted a thorough examination of the scene, gathering evidence that indicated the fire was deliberately set to conceal a homicide. Following extensive interviews and forensic analysis, authorities arrested Sandra Coutinho, a 34-year-old woman, charging her with accessory after the fact to murder. Coutinho remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.
Ongoing Search for Second Suspect
Law enforcement officials confirmed that a second individual is being sought in connection with the case. Details regarding this suspect’s identity and motivation have not been publicly released to preserve the integrity of the investigation. Police have requested assistance from the community, urging anyone with relevant information to come forward to aid in locating the second suspect.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
Authorities have reassured residents that there is currently no indication of a broader threat to public safety stemming from this incident. Increased patrols and community outreach initiatives have been implemented as precautionary measures. Police have emphasized the isolated nature of the event and committed to keeping the public informed as the investigation progresses.
Call for Public Assistance
Durham Regional Police have established a dedicated tip line and encourage community members to report any suspicious activity or information related to the case. Anonymous tips can be submitted to help expedite the apprehension of the outstanding suspect and bring closure to the victim’s family. These efforts reflect the ongoing collaboration between law enforcement and the community in addressing violent crime.
The ongoing investigation into the June 11 fire near Primrose Court and Fairport Road in Pickering has led to significant developments, including the arrest of one suspect and the continued search for another. While authorities have classified the incident as an isolated case with no current threat to public safety, the community remains vigilant as police pursue leads and gather information. The cooperation between law enforcement and residents is vital to resolving the case and ensuring the safety of the area moving forward. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.