Two suspects in Perth park murder upgraded to first-degree charges
Joseph Madore and Brayton Kennedy, wanted in the April killing of Christo Allison Richards, face first-degree murder warrants as Ontario Provincial Police continue pursuit.
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Ontario Provincial Police have upgraded murder charges to first-degree against Joseph Madore, 34, and Brayton Kennedy, 28, both of Ottawa, in the April 12 killing of Christo Allison Richards, 34.
Richards was found with life-threatening injuries in Last Duel Park, Perth, around 3:15 p.m. and was pronounced dead in hospital. Initial second-degree murder charges were laid in late April; the upgrade to first-degree, announced Thursday, reflects police belief that the alleged killing was planned and deliberate.
Both men remain at large. Madore is believed to be in British Columbia, possibly travelling through or camping in remote backcountry areas. Police say he has connections to Richmond, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Terrace, B.C. Kennedy was last seen in the Moncton, N.B. area, and his current whereabouts are unknown.
Two others have also been charged: Michael Lewis, 46, of Perth, is charged with conspiracy to commit murder, and Lyna Du, 32, of Ottawa, is charged with accessory after the fact to murder. Du was arrested in B.C. in June.
Police are asking anyone who sees either Madore or Kennedy to call 911 immediately and not approach them.
What specific evidence prompted police to upgrade the charges from second-degree to first-degree murder?
Have investigators identified a motive for the alleged killing?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
Who was killed in Perth park?
Christo Allison Richards, 34, was found with life-threatening injuries in Last Duel Park, Perth, on April 12 and was pronounced dead in hospital.
What charges do Joseph Madore and Brayton Kennedy face?
Joseph Madore, 34, and Brayton Kennedy, 28, both of Ottawa, face first-degree murder charges in connection with the April 12 killing of Christo Allison Richards. Initial second-degree charges were upgraded to first-degree on Thursday, September 3, 2026.
Where are the suspects believed to be?
Joseph Madore is believed to be in British Columbia, possibly travelling through or camping in remote backcountry areas, with connections to Richmond, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, and Terrace. Brayton Kennedy was last seen in the Moncton, N.B. area, and his current whereabouts are unknown.
Who else has been charged in connection with the case?
Michael Lewis, 46, of Perth, is charged with conspiracy to commit murder, and Lyna Du, 32, of Ottawa, is charged with accessory after the fact to murder. Du was arrested in B.C. in June.
