Fire investigation uncovers murder in St. Catharines

Niagara Police have arrested a 19-year-old male suspect in the murder of a St. Catharine’s woman, whose body was found in a burned home Saturday.

Cassell Farnsworth of St. Catharines has been charged with first degree murder in the death of 19-year-old Madeline Hood. The two were known to each other.

Police, the fire department and emergency medical officials were called to a home on East Hampton Road just after 6 p.m.

After the flames were put out they found the woman’s body in a basement apartment of the house. The police investigation determined that her death was a homicide. Details about her cause of death have not been released.

Farnsworth has been charged with first degree murder, and arson with disregard for human life.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Niagara Regional Police Major Crime Unit tip line at (905) 688-4111, extension 4468.