Arson Investigation Uncovers Elder Abuse and Auto Theft
This site earns commission from purchases made through ad links. We only promote products we believe in or use ourselves
Members of the Hamilton Police Service Break and Enter, Auto Theft and Robbery (B.E.A.R.) Unit have arrested and charged two individuals following a series of interconnected investigations involving arson, breach of release conditions, elder abuse, and stolen vehicles.
In January 2026, B.E.A.R. Unit investigators charged two individuals in connection with a series of deliberately set fires at a residence in Hamilton. Those details were previously released. Following the initial arrests, one of the accused was released from custody and subsequently breached court-imposed release conditions.
As a result of continued investigative efforts related to the arson investigation, officers uncovered information suggesting the prolonged abuse of an elderly person. A separate criminal investigation was initiated, during which investigators gathered evidence through witness statements, search warrants, and investigative follow-up.
That investigation revealed allegations of repeated physical assaults, forcible confinement, threats, and the use of weapons over an extended period of time. As a result, multiple additional charges were laid against both accused.
Further investigation also led to the execution of search warrants at additional properties associated with the accused, resulting in the recovery of stolen vehicles and proceeds of crime. Vehicle examinations determined that several vehicles had been stolen and re-identified. Additional charges related to these vehicles are anticipated.
Nicholas Tomasetti (Chine), a 28-year-old Hamilton man, has been charged with:
- Arson – Damage to Property x 4
- Possession of Incendiary Materials x 4
- Break and Enter x 2
- Proceeds of Crime Over $5,000
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
- Altering / Destroying / Removing a Vehicle Identification Number
- Fail to Comply with Release Order
- Assault with a Weapon x 4
- Forcible Confinement x 2
- Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
- Assault Causing Bodily Harm
- Uttering Threats to Cause Death
- Uttering Threats to Cause Bodily Harm
- Mischief Under $5,000
Kayla Harris, a 23-year-old Hamilton woman, has been charged with:
- Arson – Damage to Property
- Possession of Incendiary Materials
- Proceeds of Crime Over $5,000
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
- Altering / Destroying / Removing a Vehicle Identification Number
- Assault with a Weapon
- Forcible Confinement x 2
- Assault
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Police believe the incidents were targeted in nature, and there are no indicators of a broader risk to the public.