Bloomfield man facing second degree murder charge

Lawrence Markwell, 53, of Bloomfield is facing a charge of second degree murder in connection with the death early Monday morning of a 46-year-old man with whom he shared a home.

Prince Edward OPP responded to a 911 call to 51 Stanley Street in Bloomfield at 12:10 a.m.   Officers located 46-year-old Thomas McCormick deceased.

Markwell was arrested at the scene. He was held for a bail hearing at Ontario Court of Justice, Belleville, and detained on a charge of second degree murder.

Post mortem results from Ottawa indicate  the victim died as a result of foul play.  Police said the cause of death will not be released at this time.

Robert and Elizabeth Milford have been renting the home for the past 10 years. They were shocked to see police tape around the home when they arrived there this morning.

The Milfords said they have never had any trouble with the tenants and had spoken with them earlier Monday evening “and everything seemed all right,” said Elizabeth.

The investigation is continuing by the Prince Edward and East Region Crime Units under the direction of OPP Acting Detective Inspector Craig Abrams, Criminal Investigation Branch.

Anyone with information about this death is asked to contact the Prince Edward OPP at 613-476-2151.