Welland man accused of break-and-enter, violent sex assault on child

A 25-year-old man was arrested Sunday after forcing entry into a home and sexually assaulting a child under five, Niagara Regional Police reported over the weekend.

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A 25-year-old man was arrested Sunday after forcing entry into a home and sexually assaulting a child under five, Niagara Regional Police reported over the weekend.

The incident occurred in a residential area near Crowland Avenue and York Street. Police responded to a call at 8:59 a.m. on Aug. 31, 2025, finding a young girl with serious injuries.

Officers noted signs of forced entry at the home’s front door. The child was rushed to an out-of-region hospital for specialized treatment and remains in stable condition.

Investigators reviewed neighbourhood surveillance footage, leading to the identification and arrest of 25-year-old Daniel Senecal.

A local resident said over the weekend that she witnessed police apprehending the suspect, with officers stating he was being charged with sexual assault of a minor.

A neighbour, who requested anonymity, expressed shock when speaking to the National Post saying, “It’s horrific. This community needs answers.”

Another resident, whose son was allegedly assaulted by the same suspect in 2021, described a similar nighttime attack. She told the National Post the suspect was convicted and sentenced to 18 months, but released after only 12 months in March 2025.

Seneca’s newest charges related to the alleged Labour Day weekend home intrusion and attack include aggravated sexual assault on a minor, assault by choking, break and enter, and sexual interference with a minor.

He was remanded into custody and was scheduled for a court appearance by videophone on Monday. Public court records do not yet indicate the results of that appearance.