Bail denied for Merritt man accused of killing his wife in 2025

The man accused of killing his wife in Merritt late last year was back in court on Tuesday morning (July 7) for a decision on a bail application. Christopher Jarvis was seeking a release from custody where he has been held since December 16, the day he was charged with second-degree murder of his wife, Pamela Jarvis.

Justice Bradford Smith delivered a 40-minute verbal judgment Tuesday, with Christopher Jarvis appearing virtually from the Kamloops Regional Correctional Centre.

Jarvis was seeking a review of his bail, through a judicial interim release hearing, hoping to be released as he awaits trail on the murder charge.

In denying the application, Justice Smith stated Jarvis had failed to show cause for his release, ordering him to remain in custody, adding detention is necessary to retain public confidence in the administration of justice.

Jarvis is due back in court on July 9, to set a date for a preliminary inquiry.

In addition to the ongoing court proceedings, the Independent Investigation Office (IIO) is still looking into the case to determine in police action or inaction was tied to Pamela’s death.