The preliminary inquiry trial for a man charged with second degree murder began in Kelownasa国际传媒檚 Supreme Court on Nov. 21.

Lorence Williams was charged after an incident at his residence in the 3400 block of Sexsmith Road, Rutland on May 30, 2021, resulted in the death of his roommate, Thomas Chadwick.

A preliminary inquiry is held in serious criminal cases to determine whether the evidence assembled by the Crown against the accused person is sufficient to proceed with a trial. There is a publication ban imposed on the case and information shared during the inquiry cannot be published.

The day before the fatal incident, on May 29, police responded to two calls requesting wellness checks for Williams.

The police watchdog completed an investigation into the Kelowna RCMP, and whether their actions, or lack thereof, contributed to Chadwicksa国际传媒檚 death. They were cleared of wrongdoing.

Williams is currently in custody.

The trial is set to continue on Nov. 22.

READ MORE: No issue with Kelowna RCMP wellness check before mansa国际传媒檚 killing, police watchdog rules

READ MORE: 3 of 4 Kelowna murders in 2021 involved mental health component: Kelowna RCMP

Jacqueline.Gelineau@kelownacapnews.com
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