PETERBOROUGH-A Peterborough man who was out on bail and prohibited from possessing firearms has been charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of a 36-year-old woman. She has been identified as Sarah King.
At approximately 2:20 am on Friday, June 2, 2023, officers were called to a homeless encampment in the area of Wolfe Street and Aylmer Street about reports of multiple gunshots. Upon arrival, officers located a victim who was taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre and later pronounced deceased.
On Thursday, June 8, 2023, at approximately 11:50am officers from the Investigative Services Division and the Emergency Response Team arrested a 33-year-old Peterborough man.
“The Peterborough Police Service would like to recognize the hard work and many hours our detectives have put into locating the suspect, and gathering and validating evidence which culminated in the arrest today,” said Chief Betts in a press release.  ” The Service would also like to thank the many community members who took the time to reach out with information and video, which made it possible to bring this investigation to a successful conclusion so quickly.”
As a result of the investigation, 33-year-old Jonathan Murphy of Peterborough was arrested and charged:
- First Degree Murder
- Discharge a Restricted Firearm or Prohibited Firearm with Intent
- Use Firearm While Committing Offence
- Pointing a Firearm
- Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
- Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Firearm
- Uttering Threats to Cause Death X2
- Possession of Firearm Contrary to Prohibition Order X2
- Fail to Comply with Release Order X4
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking – fentanyl
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine
- Possession of the proceeds of crime under $5000
According to Peterborough Police, the accused is currently bound by two prohibition orders prohibiting him from possessing a firearm, restricted weapon, ammunition or explosive device for life. He is also currently bound by a release order with the following conditions to remain with his surety in Etobicoke, notify police of an address change, remain in his residence at all times, except in the presence of his surety and to not possess any weapons as defined by the Criminal Code.
The accused is being held for a bail hearing, which is expected tomorrow Friday, June 9, 2023.
The Peterborough Police Service says it is not looking for other suspects in this case and will continue to gather evidence.
“At this time, we believe this was not a random incident, but cannot go into further detail as the case is now before the courts,” said Betts.
The family of the victim has been made aware of the arrest. According to a Go Fund Me set up by a friend, Sarah leaves behind two children, a stepdaughter and her spouse.
