Montreal-area man remains behind bars after murder charge in partner’s killing

A South Shore man will remain behind bars after he was charged with second-degree murder in the death of his partner.

The tragedy took place a month ago in Rougemont. Firefighters arrived at a burning building and once inside, police found 40-year-old Véronic Champagne with severe injuries.

She was taken to hospital where she was pronounced dead.

David Guertin, 41, was arrested at the scene after a stand-off caught on camera by neighbours. The man had injured himself.

He was sent to hospital, which meant investigators were not able to question him up until a few days ago.

He has a lengthy criminal record at the Saint-Hyacinthe courthouse, mostly for assault, breaking and entering, breach and conditions, and not respecting court orders, among others.

A friend of the couple who went to school with the two had concerns about the relationship.

“I’m not surprised it ended this way,” said Melanie Lavoie on Wednesday.

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Lavoie said Champagne was being abused both psychologically and physically and hopes the justice system will provide better protection for women.

She added that the laws don’t offer specific protection for women, making the process long and painful for victims.

Guertin is due back in court on March 13.