Fire investigators outside the residence of a West Park home on March 31, 2022 where two people were taken to hospital following a fire in the basement. One of the victims later succumbed to her injuries. (rdnewsNOW)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Raymond Richard, 37.

Local man charged in fatal Red Deer arson fire

Apr 7, 2022 | 1:30 PM

A Red Deer man has been charged with arson and first-degree murder following what proved to be a fatal fire in the city last week.

On March 31, 2022 at around 3:30 a.m., Red Deer RCMP were called to a structure fire on 39 St. in the West Park neighbourhood.

Emergency crews on scene determined the fire originated in the basement unit of the multi-unit dwelling. A male and a female were located inside the unit and transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Mounties say a 21-year-old female succumbed to her injuries in hospital. The male was later released from hospital and subsequently arrested.

As a result of the RCMP Major Crimes Unit investigation, Raymond Richard, 37, of Red Deer, has been charged with first degree murder and arson.

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Richard was remanded and is scheduled to appear at Red Deer provincial court on April 7, 2022.

RCMP say the cause of death will not be released.

Related: Two taken to hospital following early morning fire in Red Deer