St. Catharines Man Charged with Second Degree Murder

25-128723 – St. Catharines Man Charged with Second Degree Murder

In connection with an assault investigation that began in November 2025, Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) detectives have now charged a St. Catharines man with second degree murder.

On November 3, 2025, uniform officers from 1 District (St. Catharines/Thorold) were notified of an assault that occurred the day previous on November 02, 2025, in the area of Queenston Street and Eastchester Avenue in the City of St. Catharines.

The victim, 54-year-old Jack LEGAULT, was transported to an out-of-region hospital for treatment of serious injuries.

As a result of the investigation, 36-year-old Richard TAYLOR of St. Catharines was originally arrested and charged with:

• Assault Causing Bodily Harm
• Fail to Comply with Probation Order

TAYLOR was held for a bail hearing and has remained in custody since that time.

The investigation was originally led by detectives with the 1 District Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB).  As the investigation progressed, the charge against TAYLOR was upgraded to:

• Aggravated Assault.

On December 15, 2025, Jack LEGAULT died as a result of the injuries he sustained in this incident.

The investigation was subsequently assumed by the NRPS Homicide Unit.  On March 18, 2026, during a court appearance, Richard TAYLOR is now charged with:

• Second-Degree Murder.

TAYLOR remains in custody.

Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service’s Homicide Unit at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009590.

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-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information that leads to an arrest.

NRPS Incident 25-128723