Mark Pero – Authorities in Niagara Region have released more details regarding a recent death investigation that has now been classified as a homicide. The situation unfolded in Port Colborne on Wednesday, putting many residents on high alert as police carried out an intensive search for a suspect.
According to the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS), officers initially responded to what was described as a “weapons incident” in the area. As a precaution, residents were urged to stay indoors and keep their doors locked, while several nearby schools were placed under a hold-and-secure order to ensure the safety of students and staff. Witnesses reported seeing police tactical teams and emergency vehicles positioned around the community as authorities searched for the suspect.
By Wednesday evening, investigators confirmed that the incident was being treated as a homicide. Detectives emphasized that the situation appeared to be targeted and that the suspect and victim were known to each other, suggesting that this was not a random act of violence. The victim has been identified as Pero, though police did not immediately release further details about the circumstances leading up to the fatal encounter.
During the investigation, police uncovered additional related incidents that allegedly took place before the victim’s death. Authorities have since charged 27-year-old Brady Neff in connection with the case. Neff faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder, as well as domestic assault, uttering threats, choking, pointing a firearm, and possession of a firearm.
The Niagara Regional Police stated that Neff was taken into custody without further incident and was scheduled to appear for a bail hearing on Thursday in St. Catharines. The court proceeding is expected to determine whether he will remain in custody while awaiting trial.
Community members expressed relief once authorities confirmed the suspect had been apprehended, ending hours of tension throughout Port Colborne. However, the tragic nature of the case has left many shaken. Police continue to investigate all aspects of the incident, including the events leading up to the fatal confrontation.
Detectives are currently gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the area before or during the event. Investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from nearby properties in hopes of piecing together the sequence of events.
The Niagara Regional Police Service has asked anyone with information that could assist in the ongoing investigation to contact their office directly at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009417. For those who prefer to share details anonymously, tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS). Crime Stoppers offers financial rewards for information that leads to an arrest or successful prosecution.
Authorities have thanked residents for their patience and cooperation during the high-alert situation. They also commended local schools for acting swiftly to ensure the safety of children while police operations were underway.
The Niagara Regional Police emphasized that while the investigation remains active, there is no ongoing threat to public safety. Additional updates are expected to be released as new information becomes available.
This case serves as a reminder of how quickly local situations can escalate and affect entire communities. Law enforcement officials encourage residents to stay aware of safety alerts and to report any suspicious activity immediately.
The investigation into the Niagara Region homicide continues, as detectives work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding Pero’s death and the events that led to the charges against Brady Neff.
