The B.C. man accused of slashing the throat of his five-year-old stepdaughter at a vacation home in Washington State has pleaded not guilty to a charge of first-degree murder.
Abbotsford, B.C., resident Peter James Wilson appeared for an arraignment hearing in Mason County Superior Court Monday morning.
Wilson kept his head down and was silent through the proceedings. His plea was entered by a court-appointed public defender. Bail remains at $3 million.
American authorities say the 29-year-old confessed to killing his stepdaughter after they attended a 911 call from the home near Lake Cushman on June 27, where the family had been staying for only a few days.
Wilson allegedly told police at the scene that he "knowingly" killed the girl with a knife found on the kitchen counter.
Her mother told them the dispute unfolded after the couple discussed discipline issues about their daughter.
The couple has told police Wilson takes medication for bipolar disorder.
At a funeral for Shelswell last week, the family's pastor remembered the bespectacled youngster as full of big smiles and hugs.
"She could articulate things in her soul, her heart, that few adults can," Cam Stuart said.
The Mountain Park Community Church has established a trust fund in Shelswell's memory to support her mother and nine-year-old sister Suzy.
Clare's family issued a statement through their pastor, Terry Kaethler, thanking the community for their support as they try to face life without the young child.
"Although we may see through a glass darkly right now, we believe God will work beauty out of this tragedy. We look to see chapters of healing emerge from our broken lives,' he said.
Wilson's trial date has been set for September 10.
