The second-degree murder charge against a Montrose man accused in the Nov. 4 death of his wife has been upgraded to first-degree murder.
The BC Prosecution Service confirmed to Trail Times that Donald Danchella, 46, appeared in court on Thursday, Feb. 6, facing the upgraded charge in connection with the death of his estranged wife, Lindsay Danchella, 44.
Danchella has remained in custody since his arrest on Nov. 4, 2024, when Trail RCMP responded to reports of an assault on a front lawn in Montrose.
Officers and BC Emergency Health Services found Lindsay Danchella suffering from severe injuries. She was transported to Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital, where she later succumbed to her wounds.
Danchella was arrested at the scene and has been in custody since.
The BC RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit took over the investigation.
The prosecution confirmed Danchella is entitled to a bail hearing, which would be scheduled in Supreme Court if requested.
However, the Crown has not yet received notice from the defence regarding a bail application.
Danchella’s next court appearance is set for March 9.
A publication ban under section 517(1) of the Criminal Code is in effect, restricting the release of information from any bail hearings until the case concludes.
