NEWS RELEASE
NIAGARA REGIONAL POLICE
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On Nov. 9, 2022 at 10:47 p.m., Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) officers assigned to 1 District (St. Catharines / Thorold) responded to the downtown terminal of the St. Catharines Transit Commission located at 70 Carlisle St. in the City of St. Catharines regarding an assault that just occurred.
Upon arrival, officers were directed to a 16-year-old victim suffering from a stab wound. Niagara Emergency Medical Service (NEMS) paramedics responded and assessed the victim with assistance from St. Catharines Fire & Emergency Services. The victim was transported to an out-of-town trauma centre for advanced medical care. The victim is currently listed in stable condition.
Investigation determined the victim was seated on a transit bus when approached by an adult male suspect who stole his cell phone. An altercation occurred as the victim attempted to retrieve his cell phone back, prompting the suspect to draw a knife and stab the victim.
After the assault the suspect fled the area on foot. Responding 1 District officers located the suspect a short distance away and placed him under arrest. The involved knife was recovered. It has been determined the suspect and victim are not known to one and other.
Brandon Tracey (31 years) of Niagara Falls is charged with the following Criminal Code offence:
• Aggravated assault
Tracey is being held in custody pending an appearance in bail court that is scheduled to take place on Nov. 10, 2022 via video link to the Robert S.K. Welch Courthouse located at 50 Church St. in the City of St. Catharines.
Detectives assigned to the 1 District Criminal Investigative Branch have assumed carriage of the investigation. They are being assisted by members from the Forensic Services Unit. Anyone with information is asked to contact the lead detective by dialing 905-688-4111, option 3, 1009011.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information that leads to an arrest.
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