A man has been charged with murder in the deaths of his ex-girlfriend and her mother in Courtice, according to police.
The accused, identified as 29-year-old Brandon Smeltzer, appeared in court on Monday to face two counts of first-degree murder.
The victims, identified as 37-year-old Krissy Pejcinovski and her mother, 63-year-old Anastasia Kuzyk, were found dead in their home on Sunday afternoon.
According to Durham Regional Police, officers responded to a call for a disturbance at the residence and discovered the two women with obvious signs of trauma. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
Smeltzer was arrested at the scene and has been in police custody since then.
Police have not released any information about the relationship between the accused and the victims, but they confirmed that Pejcinovski and Smeltzer were known to each other.
The accused is scheduled to appear in court again on December 20.
The community of Courtice is in shock following the tragic deaths of Pejcinovski and Kuzyk. Neighbors and friends have described the victims as kind and loving individuals who will be deeply missed.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact Durham Regional Police or Crime Stoppers.
