Mayor's Message - Expressing support for family following tragic incident

The recent sexual assault of a toddler during a break-in in our community is a horrific act that is impossible to fathom. As a parent, I cannot begin to imagine the pain this family is living through. The love and compassion we have for our children, and our concern for their well-being, is beyond words, and to think of a young child being harmed in this way shakes every parent to their core. On behalf of the City of Welland, I want to express our deepest sorrow and support for the child and family affected by this incident. To the family, please know that your privacy, safety, and healing are of the utmost importance, and you have the unwavering support of your community.

We are grateful to Welland Fire and Emergency Services, who were among the first on the scene, as well as the Niagara Regional Police Service and other emergency responders for their swift actions. The City of Welland will continue to work with police and seek action from provincial and federal levels of government to ensure that perpetrators of such crimes are dealt with severely by the courts and kept off our streets. This act of violence has shaken our city to its core. It goes against everything Welland stands for, and we will not tolerate it. Together, as neighbours, parents, and friends, we must remain united and do all we can to protect our children and each other.