Wasaga Beach assault turns into murder investigation after victim's death

Neighbours react to Wasaga beach murder charge David Zamida faces second-degree murder charge following the death of Peter Mckinven in Wasaga Beach

The charge against a Wasaga Beach man has been upgraded to second-degree murder after police say the victim died more than two months after an alleged assault.

Provincial police say they arrested David Zamida, 47, on March 6, a week after an unconscious individual was found in critical condition on Homewood Avenue.

Police say the victim, Peter Mckinven, died of injuries sustained in the alleged assault earlier this week.

Investigators have not released how Mckinven died or any details surrounding the alleged assault, but those who live in the area called it brutal and violent.

"When you take a propane tank to some guy's skull, that is a little ridiculous," said Wasaga Beach resident Robert Timlock.

"They left him on the street to die," added Wasaga Beach resident Fred Newlands, who said he knew the accused.  "[I] made friends with him and quite quickly realized he wasn't the type of person to be friends with."

Zamida was initially charged with aggravated assault, and more charges followed after a search warrant was executed at his residence.

Police allege they seized several rifles, a pellet gun, shotgun ammunition, brass knuckles, and suspected cocaine.

Along with the murder charge, the accused faces weapons-related offences, plus two counts of assault and failing to comply with an undertaking.

The allegations against Zamida have not been tested in court, still neighbours said they hope he remains in custody, claiming his home has been a dangerous drug house tormenting the community for years.

"If they ever give him bail, somebody needs their head read," Timlock said. "This guy should stay there forever."

"It's just how bad the neighbourhood has gotten. Never mind all the break-and-enters; all of a sudden, our cars are getting gone through. They go through cars to get money so they can go up and buy drugs from this guy. It's brutal," said Newlands.

Police are continuing their investigation and encourage anyone with information to contact the authorities.