A human skull discovered near Read Road and the shore of Lake Ontario late last month has led to a homicide investigation, Niagara Regional Police confirmed last Tuesday.

Detectives say the victim is a Black man, believed to be between 18 and 22 years old, standing between 5-foot-10 and 6-foot-3 with a muscular build. Efforts to confirm his identity are ongoing.

Police believe the man’s death occurred sometime between late 2021 and spring 2025. Investigators say the case is “particularly complex” due to the condition of the remains, which were recovered in stages. A skull was located on Aug. 31, and on Sept. 3, additional skeletal remains were recovered from the same area.

Forensic examinations and post-mortem testing are underway with the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service. Investigators say the description of the victim does not match any known missing persons cases within the Niagara region.

The Niagara Regional Police homicide unit is leading the investigation with assistance from the Missing Persons and Unidentified Human Remains Co-ordinator. The area where the remains were found remains under police guard while searches continue.

Police are urging anyone with information to call 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009417. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Niagara at 1-800-222-8477 or online.