A violent break-in at a Welland residence has led to the arrest of a suspect in connection with the sexual assault of a child, according to Niagara Regional Police.
On Sunday, August 31, 2025, at approximately 8:59 a.m., officers from the Niagara Regional Police Service, along with Niagara Emergency Medical Services (NEMS), responded to a medical assistance call involving a child under five at a home near Crowland Avenue and York Street in Welland, Ontario.
Upon arrival, police say officers observed signs of forced entry at the front door. Inside, they found the child suffering from serious injuries. Paramedics transported the child to an out-of-region hospital, where they remain in stable condition.
Police say the child’s parents reported that an unknown individual had entered the home sometime between 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 30 and 8:59 a.m. on Sunday, August 31, and sexually assaulted their child without their knowledge.
Suspect Identified Through Surveillance Footage
Officers secured the scene and began a neighborhood canvass. A witness provided surveillance footage that helped identify a suspect. Following further investigation, police say they arrested Daniel SENECAL, 25, of Welland.
SENECAL faces the following criminal charges:
- Aggravated Sexual Assault on a Person Under 16
- Assault
- Assault / Choking
- Break, Enter and Commit – Dwelling House
- Sexual Interference with a Person Under 16
He was scheduled for a bail hearing via video link on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the Robert S.K. Welch Courthouse in St. Catharines.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The case is now being led by the Child Abuse Unit, with support from the Sexual Assault Unit and Forensic Services Unit.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the lead detective at (905) 688-4111, option #3, extension 1009898.
To provide information anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers Niagara or call 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for tips that lead to an arrest.
