PORT COLBORNE, ON — Detectives with the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) Homicide Unit have announced that a recent weapons investigation in Port Colborne has officially been upgraded to a homicide investigation, following the tragic death of 42-year-old Mark Pero, a resident of Port Colborne.
According to police, the investigation began as a weapons-related call but has since revealed circumstances consistent with a targeted and violent altercation. Following extensive investigative work, detectives have charged 27-year-old Brady Neff, also of Port Colborne, with Second-Degree Murder in connection with Pero’s death.
Authorities confirmed that Neff and the victim were known to each other, and early findings indicate that this was not a random act of violence. During the course of the investigation, police uncovered a series of related incidents that allegedly took place prior to the fatal confrontation. As a result, Neff is now facing several additional charges, including:
- Domestic Assault
- Uttering Threats
- Choking
- Pointing a Firearm
- Possession of a Firearm
Investigators have also confirmed that the firearm believed to have been used in the killing has been recovered and is being processed for forensic evidence.
“This tragic case has deeply impacted the community,” said an NRPS spokesperson. “Our detectives are continuing to piece together the events leading up to this fatal encounter to ensure a full and transparent investigation.”
Suspect Remains in Custody
Brady Neff remains in police custody and is scheduled to appear for a bail hearing on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the Robert S.K. Welch Courthouse on Church Street in St. Catharines. The NRPS Homicide Unit, in collaboration with Forensic Services and Major Crime detectives, continues to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
Residents of Port Colborne have expressed shock and sadness at the news, describing the incident as deeply unsettling for their normally quiet community. Friends and neighbors of the victim, Mark Pero, are mourning his sudden and tragic loss. Mark was known locally as a kind, down-to-earth man who cared deeply for those around him.
Police have not yet released further details regarding the motive or circumstances of the fatal altercation. However, they continue to urge anyone with information, surveillance footage, or knowledge of the events leading up to the incident to come forward and contact investigators.
The Niagara Regional Police Service assures the public that there is no ongoing threat to community safety and that the situation appears to have been isolated to those directly involved.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are working diligently to provide answers to the victim’s family and bring justice for Mark Pero.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the NRPS Homicide Unit at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009132, or to provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers of Niagara.
This is an active and ongoing investigation. More details will be released as they become available.
