Murder trial dates set for Ont. man accused of killing roommate

Trial dates have been put on the record for Sonny Stephens, 48, accused of murder following the July 2024 death of his roommate.

Trial dates have been put on the record in the Superior Court of Justice in Barrie for a 48-year-old man accused of murder following the July 2024 death of his roommate.

Sonny Stephens has been behind bars for nearly two years awaiting trial accused of second-degree murder after his 75-year-old roommate was found dead outside their Grove Street East rooming house on the night of July 13, 2024.

Three weeks have been set aside next February before a judge and jury. Stephens is next scheduled to return to court in June for a pre-trial.

• Judicial pre-trial held for Barrie man accused of 75-year-old roommate’s death

Police allege Stephens killed roommate Eric Beecroft after officers were called to the home and found a man suffering from serious injuries to his head and face.

• Barrie man charged with murder in roommate’s death

At the time, police said Stephens fled the scene and was taken into custody when he returned to the home early the next day. Investigators have not revealed how Beecroft died. Any evidence heard in court to this point is protected by a publication ban.

• Senior murdered in Barrie, investigation ongoing

Police confirmed Stephens and Beecroft knew one another. CTV News has learned both men lived in the rooming house where the alleged murder took place. Police said there was a disagreement that led to violence that ultimately resulted in the man’s death. Police also revealed Stephens was known to investigators prior to the call to the home.

Stephens is represented by experienced Toronto defence lawyers Nathan Gorham and Breana Vandebeek.

The allegations against Stephens have not been tested in court.