Man charged with 2nd-degree murder in Ottawa stabbing

A man is facing a second-degree murder chargeafter another man died from stab wounds suffered in a fight at a home in Ottawa's Britannia neighbourhood.

Police said the incident happened Monday evening around6 p.m. at 2814 Carling Ave. near Britannia Park, just one block west of Pinecrest Road.

Mark Haslett, 24,was arrested and later charged with attempted murder after police said afight broke out between him andthe victim.

The charge was upgraded after the victim, Roland Laflamme, died early Tuesday morning after being stabbed in the stomach.

Police said the victim and suspect knew each other but they do not have a motive for the stabbing.

Accused's next appearance set for Feb. 19

Haslett had to wait to appear in court as officials debated if the charge would be first or second-degree murder.

Hewas remanded into custody following ahearing that lasted about five minutes, attended only by media and a police detective.

CBC Ottawa's Giacomo Panico saidHaslett mostly stared blankly at the ground, speaking slowly when he went to consult his lawyer.

Haslett'snext appearance willbe byvideo linkon Feb. 19.

Ottawa police'smajor crime section is investigating. Anyone with information can contact policeat 613-236-1222, ext. 5493 or Crime Stoppers at 613-233-8477.