The Prince George RCMP has confirmed that the 85 year old victim of the Jan. 7 early morning residential fire on Merritt Road, has passed away as a result of his injuries.
Investigators have determined that the fire was arson.
A charge of arson has been approved against Frank William Marion, a 49 year old tenant of the residence who has a significant history with police. Investigators will be recommending further charges as a result of the victim's passing.
The victim was a prominent member of the Sikh community in Prince George, although this is not believed to be a factor that led to the fire.
The Prince George RCMP's Serious Crime Unit is continuing with the investigation.
More information will be provided as it becomes available.
If you have any information about this investigation, please contact the Prince George RCMP at (250)561-3300 or anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1(800)222-TIPS (8477), online at www.pgcrimestoppers.bc.ca, or Text-A-Tip to CRIMES using keyword "pgtips".
