Warrant Issued After Pickering Fire Death Ruled a Homicide

A Canada-wide warrant has been issued for the arrest of a 34-year-old man following the death of a 69-year-old woman in a house fire in Pickering on June 11, according to Durham Regional Police.

Police report that this is the third homicide in Durham Region in 2025. Investigators stated they believe the incident is isolated and that there is no threat to public safety.

Emergency services responded to the area of Primrose Court and Fairport Road at about 2:20 p.m. on June 11 for a reported house fire. A 69-year-old woman was found deceased inside the home. After a post-mortem examination, the Durham Regional Police Homicide Unit took over the investigation.

Police have named Elston Coutinho, 34, and obtained a warrant for second-degree murder in connection with the incident. Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact Detective French of the Homicide Unit at 1-888-579-1520, extension 5421, or provide information anonymously to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca.

Durham Regional Police state that the information released is based on their investigation to date, and that the allegations have not been proven in court.