Suspect wanted for assault and firearm offences

On Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 8:33 a.m. Niagara Regional Police Service officers assigned to Welland and 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.  The suspect left behind a  loaded handgun that was recovered at the scene. Officers, with the assistance of the canine unit and the emergency task unit, attempted to track the suspect on foot, drawing a large police presence in the area.

Shortly after, investigators received information he may have made his way to the City of Niagara Falls and was hiding inside a residential address.  As a result, the emergency task unit assisted by Niagara Falls officers searched the home located in the area of St. Lawrence Avenue near Simcoe Street, but he was not found.

Juan Carlos Castro, 28, of Niagara Falls is wanted for assault and  possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Castro is described as black, 5' 10'',170 lbs, with braided medium length black hair, and is known to wear glasses.

He was last seen wearing a white jacket, white sweater and 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.