Windsor Police Charge LaSalle Man with First-Degree Murder in 2026's First Homicide
Windsor police have laid a first-degree murder charge against a LaSalle man in connection with the city's first homicide of 2026, following an incident where a man was discovered unresponsive in a hospital parking lot. The charge was filed less than 24 hours after the victim was found, marking a swift response by law enforcement.
Details of the Incident
Officers responded to a call shortly after 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the parking lot of Windsor Regional Hospital's Metropolitan Campus. There, they found a 44-year-old Windsor man unresponsive outside the building. Police attempted life-saving measures, but the victim was later pronounced dead inside the hospital's emergency department.
Authorities have withheld the victim's name and further details, but confirmed that the victim and suspect were known to each other. Investigators from the Windsor police major crimes unit determined that the man had allegedly sustained a fatal injury shortly before being transported to the hospital and left in the parking lot.
Investigation and Arrest
Through their investigation, police identified a suspect and traced him to a residence in the 9200 block of Broderick Road in LaSalle. Just before 9 p.m. on Tuesday, members of the Windsor emergency services unit executed a warrant at the home and arrested the suspect without incident.
The suspect, identified as Brandon Gerald Leigh, has been charged with first-degree murder. Police emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Major Crimes Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4830. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at catchcrooks.com.
This case highlights the collaborative efforts of local law enforcement in addressing violent crimes swiftly and effectively. The community is encouraged to assist in any way possible to ensure justice is served.
