Three Charged with First-Degree Murder in Disappearance of Robbie Thomson
Smiths Falls, ON – Three individuals have been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the disappearance of Robbie Thomson, a man last seen in the Smiths falls area in October 2023. Thomson was 34 years old at the time of his disappearance.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) announced the charges Wednesday,following a two-year examination that included extensive searches utilizing canine units and aerial support. A $50,000 reward had been offered for information leading to a conviction in the case.
Charged are Christopher Fenton, 48, and Erin Mackie, 40, both of Montague Township, and Joshua Belfiori, 34, of Kingston. All three where taken into custody Wednesday and are scheduled to appear in court Thursday.
While police have confirmed the charges, the location of Thomson’s remains remains unknown. The investigation is now focused on locating his body.
“We believe Robbie Thomson is deceased,” stated OPP spokesperson Bill Dickson, declining to comment on the evidence leading to the charges or any potential connection between the suspects and the missing man. Dickson also indicated it is premature to determine if the reward will be paid out.
the arrests have brought a measure of relief to Thomson’s family, though their search for closure continues. ”Every day I see different people down the street that I say, ‘There’s Robbie!’ Looks just like him, walks like him,” said George Thomson, Robbie’s father. “You’re still looking for him…so there’s a big void.”
Tabatha Thomson, Robbie’s sister, noted the unusual silence following his disappearance. “Normally he’d be in contact with either me or my dad every three days. Within five days there was nothing,” she said.
The OPP investigation remains ongoing,and residents near Kelly Jordan Road,close to Smiths falls,can expect a continued,important police presence. This case is being investigated separately from other recent disappearances in the region,including that of another man whose remains were later discovered.
