A man found dead in Brighton Monday near the train tracks by Ontario Street has been identified as Belleville resident Andrew Robinson, who was previously reported missing on Dec. 23, 2024.
On Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, the Belleville Police Service issued an update, saying the man found deceased was identified as Robinson by the coroner’s office. In the BPS release, it states police, at this time, do not believe the death to be suspicious.
Police earlier reported that the 26-year-old Belleville resident was last seen back on Dec. 23 around 2:25 a.m. walking eastbound on College Street West from Sidney Street in Belleville.
Meanwhile, Northumberland OPP also issued an update on their sudden death investigation Tuesday, saying their probe is ongoing.
On Tuesday, members of the OPP’s emergency response team and canine unit also tackled “a co-ordinated search of the area.”
“Officers are also canvassing the area for CCTV footage and seeking possible lines of inquiry with residents and businesses in and around the location,” said OPP, in their Tuesday release.
In the Tuesday update, more details were also released about the OPP investigation. As previously reported, residents were advised of an increased police presence in the area yesterday (Dec. 30) – police later confirmed an individual was found deceased, but no other details were provided.
OPP said officers were called to the area shortly before 4 p.m. following a report from CN Police about an individual found near the railway tracks by Ontario Street.
EMS reportedly confirmed the individual was deceased. Trains were stopped in the area initially, and the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario was notified, said OPP.
“An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death is currently underway, assisted by the Northumberland OPP crime unit (and) forensic identification services (IDENT), and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario,” said OPP Tuesday.
Initially, OPP said the investigation into the identity of the deceased was ongoing (before BPS issued their release.)
Police have said a post-mortem examination will be conducted at the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service in Kingston.
“While the cause of death remains under investigation, police believe there is no threat to public safety,” reiterated OPP on Tuesday. “The investigation is in its early stages and no further details can be released at this time.”
Police are asking anyone with information relating to the investigation to contact Northumberland OPP at the Brighton Detachment – 613-475-1313 – or on OPP’s non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122. Crime Stoppers is also an anonymous option by calling 1-800-222-8477, or people can submit tips online.
It’s anticipated OPP will issue another update later today.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
