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Man Faces Charges in Homicide and House FireAugust 7, 2009
Lakewood police detectives have added a charge of first degree murder against a man who was arrested for motor vehicle theft Wednesday night in Westminster. The murder charge is the result of an investigation into a house fire on W. 20th avenue where the body of 49-year-old Bonni Gilbert Bergin was discovered.
40-year-old Britt Allan Cox (05-13-69) was arrested Wednesday night after he was contacted in a stolen vehicle in the 3300 block of W. 71st Place. Cox has been in the Jefferson County Jail on the stolen vehicle charge since his arrest.
Previously Cox had been interviewed by Lakewood detectives about Bergin's death but had not been arrested. Since the initial interviews, detectives developed enough information and evidence to add the murder charge against Cox. Additional charges are anticipated as the investigation continues.
Firefighters from West Metro responded to numerous 911 calls at about 10:30 pm on Tuesday July 28, 2009, after neighbors reported hearing an explosion and seeing flames at Bergin's residence on W. 20th Avenue. Bergin's body was discovered as fire crews began their investigation into the fire.
Detectives are asking anyone who feels they may have information about Bergin and/or information that would assist them with their investigation to please call the Lakewood Police Department at 303-987-7111.
A mug shot of Cox is not available yet. Detectives will use it in photo line-ups. Cox's first appearance in court will most likely take place Monday morning.