A Chetwynd man is now facing an upgraded charge in the death of Carlene Engellend.
BC Prosecution has confirmed Kenneth Albert Wood is now charged with first-degree murder.
Engelland was found dead on march 9, 2025, after emergency crews responded to a medical distress call.
At the time, Chetwynd police described the 45-year-old’s death as suspicious.
Wood appeared in court on Tuesday before Judge Tamera Golinsky. The Crown laid the new charge of first-degree murder on Monday.
Wood was initially charged with second-degree murder, and the new charge relates to the same alleged incident in Chetwynd last march.
Wood’s next court appearance is scheduled for February 5. He will have to enter an election, where he will have to decide whether he wants to be tried by a judge or by a jury.
BC Prosecution says Wood remains in custody.