A preliminary inquiry has been scheduled for Eric Mearow, accused of second-degree murder in the death of a fellow inmate at the Algoma Treatment and Remand Centre (ATRC) in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. The inquiry, set to begin October 5th, will determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial, nearly a year after the alleged crime.
Nathan Pregent-Daoust, 25, died following an altercation on October 8, 2025, at the ATRC. According to a statement released by the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service at the time, officers responded to a report of a “sudden death” at the remand centre. An investigation revealed a verbal dispute escalated into a physical assault, with Mearow allegedly punching and stomping Pregent-Daoust multiple times. Pregent-Daoust was transported to hospital where he was pronounced dead due to his injuries.
Mearow, now 41, was formally charged with second-degree murder on October 14, 2025. He remains in custody at the Central North Correctional Centre, a maximum-security facility in Penetanguishene, Ontario.
The death of Pregent-Daoust has also prompted a $4-million civil lawsuit filed by his family against Mearow, the Algoma Treatment and Remand Centre, the Crown, four correctional officers and two sergeants. The suit alleges negligence on the part of the remand centre and its staff, claiming they allowed Pregent-Daoust to be placed in a “position of imminent harm.” The allegations contained within the statement of claim have not been proven in court, and statements of defence have yet to be filed.
Mearow is represented by Toronto-based criminal defence lawyer Ariel Herscovitch. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 2nd.
Separately, Mearow is facing charges stemming from a July 2025 motorcycle crash on Highway 563 in Batchawana Bay. Details of those charges have not been released, and that matter is still before the courts.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Pregent-Daoust’s death. No details have been released regarding the nature of the initial verbal altercation.