Summary
On November 8, 2023, the remains of an unidentified woman were discovered in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The woman’s remains were found beneath a portion of a vacant home undergoing demolition at 7081 Stanley Avenue. Investigators determined she was an adult female, and forensic and anthropological examination indicated the remains had likely been at the property for many years, potentially dating back to the mid-1990s. Her death is being investigated as a homicide.
Efforts to identify the woman, including forensic and anthropological examination, were unsuccessful. Despite continued investigative work, the case went cold, and she remained unidentified for nearly two years.
In 2025, investigators with the Niagara Regional Police Service working with the Toronto Police Service and Ontario Forensic Pathology Service, submitted evidence to Othram in The Woodlands, Texas.
At Othram, scientists successfully extracted DNA from the provided evidence and then used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to develop a comprehensive SNP profile for the woman. This profile was used in a forensic genetic genealogy search led by the Toronto Police Service, which generated new investigative leads.
Using these leads, investigators conducted a follow-up investigation that resulted in the identification of the woman as Brenda Marie LeBlanc. Investigators have determined that Brenda resided in both Niagara Falls and St. Catharines during the 1990s, when she was in her 30’s, and was originally from New Brunswick. At this time, investigators have not established Brenda’s connection to the residence on Stanley Street.
The Niagara Regional Police Service Homicide Unit is seeking public assistance from anyone who knew Brenda LeBlanc during the 1990s or who has information about her associates, whereabouts, or activities. Investigators can be contacted by calling the NRPS Homicide Unit Hotline at 289-248-1058.
This is the 29th publicly announced case in Ontario where investigators have used Othram's technology to identify an individual. Learn about other cases by visiting Othram's website.
Dan Miller
Director of Customer Service
Dan guides law enforcement agencies across the United States and internationally through every step of the forensic process—from crime scene to courtroom. He ensures investigators have the support and resources they need to navigate advanced DNA testing and maximize the impact of forensic evidence in their cases.