A second-degree murder charge laid against a 26-year-old man in connection with a death in Nain this summer has been upgraded to first degree murder.

RCMP say further investigation has led to the first degree murder charge against Manasse Bennett in connection with the death of a 50-year-old man on July 30.

In addition to the upgraded charge, Bennett is also facing two additional counts of assault causing bodily harm against two other residents on the same day.

Bennett is being held in custody pending his next court appearance September 1.