York Regional Police announced two significant arrests in connection with a fatal arson in Richmond Hill. The arrests were made early Wednesday morning. The suspects are 42-year-old Camille Netricia Hall and 30-year-old Smart George Idemudia Junior Obanor, both from Toronto.

Each suspect faces multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, three counts of attempted arson, arson with disregard for human life, and arson causing property damage. Police held a press conference at their headquarters in Aurora to provide details about the case.

Deputy Chief Ryan Hogan stated that investigators believe Hall and Obanor have no connection to the victims. There is no evidence suggesting they were hired by a third party. The nature of the relationship between the two suspects is still under investigation, which Hogan noted is “far from over.”

The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of September 1, resulting in the deaths of two members of the Bahari-Kashani family. Three other family members were hospitalized but survived. The victims included 24-year-old Helya, a recent graduate from UCLA who was home studying for the MCAT exam, and her 11-year-old niece, whose identity has not been disclosed by authorities.

Investigators initially suspected the fire was intentionally set. The office of the fire marshal confirmed that smoke detectors in the home were operational and had sounded the alarm. When first responders arrived, they found four family members unconscious inside the residence, while a fifth was located outside.

The community has been deeply affected by this incident. Hogan expressed condolences to the family, stating, “We know this crime has sent shock waves throughout our community, leaving residents feeling unsafe and many grieving.”

The Bahari-Kashani family was well-known in the area, and police have received numerous messages from neighbors, colleagues, and classmates expressing their sorrow. In response to the tragedy, over $170,000 has been raised to support the surviving family members. Police have chosen not to release further details about the case to respect the privacy of those affected.