Perth Teenager Faces First-Degree Murder Charge

UPDATE: On Nov. 26, 2025, the young person admitted guilt to first-degree murder. Sentencing is set for February.

A 16-year-old girl linked to the death of 15-year-old Reese Stanzel near Ottawa last month has now been charged with first-degree murder, according to Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) on Thursday.

On Oct. 25, officers who responded to a call outside of Perth, Ont., found a body later confirmed as Stanzel’s. Shortly after, police took the 16-year-old into custody at a nearby residence and initially charged her with second-degree murder.

OPP mentioned that the ongoing investigation led them to elevate the charge. First-degree murder indicates that the killing was “planned and deliberate,” based on the Criminal Code.

Authorities did not provide further details about what information prompted this change, stating that their inquiry continues.

Reese Stanzel, 15, was killed on Oct. 25, 2024, in the town of Perth, Ont. (Facebook)

The accused remains detained in custody, police indicated. Her identity is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which prohibits disclosing names of individuals under 18 in most cases.

The shocking nature of this incident has left many residents in Lanark County-home to about 6,500 people and situated around 85 kilometers southwest of downtown Ottawa-in disbelief.

OPP continue to request patience from the public while asking everyone to avoid sharing unverified information since they cannot discuss evidence or motives at this time.

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