WELLAND, Ontario – A disturbing case has emerged from Welland, where a 25-year-old man, Daniel “Dani” Senecal, has been arrested and charged in connection with the sexual assault of a toddler during a reported home invasion.
On Sunday, August 31, emergency responders were called to a residence near Crowland Avenue and York Street, where they discovered signs of forced entry and a seriously injured child. The toddler was transported to a medical facility outside the region for advanced care and is now listed in stable condition.
Suspect Identified Through Surveillance
Authorities say Senecal was identified with the help of surveillance footage provided by a witness. Senecal, who is known to identify as transgender and uses she/her pronouns on social media, was quickly apprehended.
He now faces multiple serious charges, including:
Aggravated sexual assault on a child
Sexual interference with a child
Assault
Assault by choking
Breaking and entering
Police Call It a ‘Stranger Attack’ — But Questions Remain
Niagara Regional Police initially categorized the incident as a “stranger attack” that occurred sometime between 10 p.m. and 8:59 a.m. However, friends of the victim’s family have told media outlets, including the National Post, that Senecal was known to the family, and may have had previous contact with the child.
This discrepancy has led to growing public concern and online debate about how the case is being characterized by law enforcement.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The community has expressed shock and outrage, with many calling for transparency and justice for the young victim.
