Exford, accused arson killer, free on bail

LOWVILLE, New York (WWNY) - The man accused of killing two women with a fire he intentionally set has been freed on bail.

Shawn Exford was freed Monday, after his mother posted bail.

Shannon Exford put up a $300,000 bank check and proved to Lewis County Court judge Daniel King she could pay the balance of three million dollars, if need be.

Exford’s release followed hearings Friday and Monday. The Watertown Times first reported Exford’s release.

Exford is accused of setting the November 2019 fire that killed two women at a home on Lowville’s South State Street.

Killed were 58 year old Catherine Crego and 42 year old Saratina Kilbourne

A county grand jury handed up a 13-count indictment against Exford in March 2020. The charges included two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of first-degree arson, and several counts of first-degree reckless endangerment.

Judge King also issued an order of protection for Brian Mushtare, who lived at the South State Street home where the fire took place and escaped the fire.

Exford’s trial is scheduled to start Monday, September 20, in Lewis County court.