OPP upgrade warrants to first-degree murder in Perth homicide investigation

Two Ottawa men are now wanted for first-degree murder as Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue to investigate the April homicide of a 34-year-old man in Perth.

Lanark County OPP say arrest warrants for Joseph Madore, 34, and Brayton Kennedy, 28, both of Ottawa, have been updated and each man is now wanted for first-degree murder. The two suspects were originally charged with second degree murder in April of this year.

The investigation began on Sunday, April 12, 2026, when officers responded to Last Duel Park in Perth at about 3:15 p.m. and found a person with life-threatening injuries.

The victim, identified as 34-year-old Christo Allison Richards of Ottawa, was transported to a trauma centre, where he was later pronounced dead.

Two other people have since been charged in connection with the investigation. In May, Michael Lewis, 46, of Perth, was charged with conspiracy to commit murder. Lyna Du, 32, of Ottawa, was charged in June with accessory after the fact to murder.

Police say investigators have reason to believe Madore is in British Columbia and may be travelling through or camping in remote back country areas.

Police originally thought both men could be in British Columbia, but now say Kennedy is believed to possibly be in New Brunswick.

None of the above allegations have been proven in court.

Police ask anyone with information about either man’s whereabouts to contact investigators.

Anyone who sees Madore or Kennedy is advised not to approach them and to call 911.

The homicide investigation is being conducted by Lanark County OPP under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner and the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service. OPP Forensic Identification Services is also assisting.

Anyone with information about the investigation can contact Lanark County OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers.