AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — A former Massachusetts man has pleaded not guilty to murder, arson and other charges for allegedly fatally shooting a man who had taken him into his Maine home and then setting his house on fire.

David Silva Jr. entered his plea while being arraigned Monday in Kennebec County Superior Court.

The 32-year-old Silva is charged with killing 53-year-old Robert Orr on Feb. 8 and then setting the fire to the Readfield home cover up evidence of the shooting. He is also charged with stealing Orr’s pickup truck, firearms and other items.

Silva and his girlfriend had been living in Orr’s home for several weeks before the killing.

The Kennebec Journal reported that Silva’s trial is expected to take place early next year.


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