‘No one would have died’: Coworker unnerved by comments made by accused after Windsor Assembly explosion

A coworker testified in the trial of man accused of arson at the Windsor Assembly Plant. CTV's Michelle Maluske explains.

The trial of James Harris, 37, continued Wednesday in Superior court.

He’s pled not guilty to arson with disregard for human life and intent to cause explosion.

No one was hurt after a small explosion occurred on Nov. 4, 2021, on the second floor of the sprawling factory which numerous employees have testified was largely abandoned.

Two days before the explosion, Harris allegedly told coworkers to “avoid the area” because “something was gonna go down.”

Victoria Moore, a former janitor who worked for Team Industrial, a subcontracted company for Stellantis, testified Wednesday.

She told the judge they would walk through that area on slow shifts or to get exercise.

The day after the explosion, Moore said Harris made comments that made her fear for her own safety.

“He said, “Don’t worry. No one would’ve have gotten hurt. No one would have died,” Moore testified.

She also said Harris knew specifically where the explosion occurred.

On cross-examination Moore conceded Harris never took responsibility for the explosion.

She also admitted that rumours were swirling around the factory about what happened, and that that could have coloured her interpretation of Harris’ statements.

The trial continues Thursday.