The Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) Homicide Unit continues to investigate the circumstances of a homicide that occurred on April 30th, 2022, at 11:40pm in the area of Division Street and Alexander Street, in the City of Welland.
Detectives can confirm the deceased male was 50 years of age. The second victim is 68 years of age and has been released from hospital. Further identifying information and the cause of death is not being released at this time.
Investigation has revealed both victims and the accused, 35-year-old Joel Dreaver, were known to each other.
Two uniform patrol officers assigned to 3 District (Welland/Pelham) sustained minor injuries during the arrest of Dreaver.
The arrest was witnessed by a number of community members who were in the area at the time. Two citizens observed the officers struggling with Dreaver and came forward to assist. The Niagara Regional Police Service would like to thank those specific community members and others who called 911 to report the incident.
Area residents with CCTV footage that captures Division Street near Alexander Street and motorists who were in the area with an operational dash-camera, are encouraged to review their footage and contact the lead homicide detective at 905-688-4111, option 3, ext 1009470 with any relevant information.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information that leads to an arrest.
Incident #22-44766
Male charged following Welland homicide (Sunday May 1, 2022)
At approximately 11:40pm on Saturday April 30, 2022, 3 District (Welland/Pelham) uniform officers were called to a home in the area of Division Street and Alexander Street in the City of Welland following the report of a disturbance.
Upon arrival police located three individuals; two with significant injuries. One male was pronounced deceased at the scene while the second victim was transported a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. A suspect was located at the scene and placed under arrest by uniform officers.
35-year-old Joel Dreaver has been arrested and charged with the following offences:
Second Degree Murder; Aggravated Assault; and Assault Police (2 Counts).
Dreaver is currently being held in custody pending a bail hearing on Sunday May 1, 2022 at the John Sopinka Courthouse in the City of Hamilton.
As the investigation continues, there remains a heavy police presence in the area. At this time, detectives have no reason to believe there remains an on-going threat to the public.
Anyone with further information is asked to contact detectives with the Niagara Regional Police Service Homicide Unit at (905) 688-4111 , dial option 3, ext 1009470.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact CrimeStoppers of Niagara at 1 (800) 222-TIPS (8477).