NEWS RELEASE
NIAGARA REGIONAL POLICE
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On February 15, 2023, at 8:33 a.m. Niagara Regional Police Service officers assigned to 3 District (Welland / Pelham) responded to a disturbance at a residential address located in the area of Kottmeier Road near Port Robinson Road in Thorold.
Officers learned an assault had taken place and that the suspect had fled the scene, possibly on foot. A loaded handgun that was being carried by the suspect during the commission of the offence was recovered at the scene. Officers with the assistance of the NRPS Canine Unit and the NRPS Emergency Task Unit attempted to track the suspect on foot, drawing a large police presence in the area.
Shortly after, investigators received information the suspect may have made his way to the City of Niagara Falls and was hiding inside a residential address. As a result, the NRPS Emergency Task Unit assisted by officers assigned to 2 District (Niagara Falls / Niagara-on-the-Lake) searched the residential home located in the area of St. Lawrence Avenue near Simcoe Street. The suspect was not located.
Juan Carlos Castro, 28, of Niagara Falls is wanted for Criminal Code offences of:
- assault
- possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
Castro is described as:
- male
- black
- 5-foot-10
- 170 lbs
- braided medium length black hair
- known to wear glasses
Castro was last seen wearing:
- white jacket
- white sweater
- black pants
Due to the recovery of a firearm, Castro may be armed and should not be approached. Members of the public who know the whereabouts of Castro are encouraged to contact 911 immediately.
Anyone with information is being asked to contact the lead detective by dialing 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009332.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477.
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