Hamilton man charged with murder after investigation into body found last summer, police say

Hamilton police have arrested and charged a 39-year-old man with murder following an investigation into a man's suspicious death in July 2024.

Brent LeFrancois of Hamilton faces charges of second-degree murder and indignity to a body, in the death of Adam Parrish, Hamilton Police Service said in a news release Monday morning.

A police spokesperson confirmed to CBC Hamilton that the charges relate to an investigation they told the public about a little over a year ago after responding to a report of a body near an abandoned house at 1452 Upper James St., on July 6, 2024. 

"Hamilton Police continue to extend its deepest condolences to Adam's family during this incredibly difficult time," the service said. 

Police said Monday that they found Parrish under a piece of plywood outside and said "a number of people were living in and around the vicinity." 

"An autopsy was conducted, and preliminary findings raised the possibility the death may be suspicious," police said.

Detectives conducted "numerous" interviews with witnesses and searches under warrants, police said, noting a full autopsy eventually confirmed Parrish did not die of natural causes.

Police have not publicly shared how they believe Parrish died, nor the circumstances surrounding his death.