The nationwide manhunt continues for two Ottawa men wanted on upgraded first-degree murder charges. Ontario Provincial Police are actively tracking 34-year-old Joseph Madore and 28-year-old Brayton Kennedy. Both suspects face severe allegations connected to a violent daytime homicide.
The investigation stems from an incident on April 12. Officers rushed to Last Duel Park in Perth, Ontario, shortly after 3 p.m. following reports of violence. They found Christo Allison Richards suffering from critical, life-threatening injuries. Emergency crews transported the victim to a trauma center, where he later died.
How The Case Escalated
Police initially issued warrants for Madore and Kennedy on second-degree murder charges. Ongoing investigative work by the Lanark County OPP and the Criminal Investigation Branch prompted authorities to upgrade the charges to first-degree murder.
Two other individuals have already faced legal action tied to the homicide. One suspect faces charges of conspiracy to commit murder, while another is charged as an accessory after the fact. Despite these arrests, the two primary targets remain at large, triggering a coast-to-coast search effort.
Cross-Country Search Operations
Investigators believe the suspects split up and fled across provincial lines. Intelligence suggests that Joseph Madore may be hiding out in British Columbia, potentially camping or traveling through remote backcountry terrain. Meanwhile, police tracking indicates Brayton Kennedy could be located thousands of kilometers away in New Brunswick.
This wide geographical spread places pressure on multiple law enforcement agencies, including local detachments and the RCMP. Tracking fugitives across dense wilderness or unfamiliar provinces requires extensive coordination, public tips, and forensic backing from the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service.
Public Safety And Warnings
Authorities maintain a strict stance regarding public interaction with either suspect. Police warn civilians never to approach Madore or Kennedy if spotted. Both men are considered dangerous.
Anyone with immediate visual sightings should dial 911 right away. Individuals holding anonymous tips regarding their movements, hideouts, or associates can contact the Lanark County OPP directly or reach out through Crime Stoppers. Law enforcement urges anyone with hidden details to come forward as the search persists.
