In a significant verdict delivered on April 24, 2025, Randall McKenzie and Brandi Stewart-Sperry were found guilty of first-degree murder in the 2022 shooting death of Ontario Provincial Police Constable Grzegorz Pierzchala. The jury in Cayuga, Ontario, reached their decision after approximately six hours of deliberation following a four-week trial. Both defendants were immediately sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 25 years.
Pierzchala, a 28-year-old officer, was fatally shot on December 27, 2022, while responding to a report of a vehicle in a ditch near Hagersville, Ontario. The incident occurred shortly after Pierzchala had learned he had successfully completed his probationary period with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
During the trial, the Crown argued that McKenzie was the shooter and that Stewart-Sperry assisted him in the act. Superior Court Justice Andrew Goodman characterized McKenzie’s actions as "shocking" and "cold-blooded," expressing his condolences to Pierzchala’s family. "Your actions here were callous, cold-blooded, and an assassination of a young officer in the prime of his life, just starting out in his career," Goodman stated.
McKenzie, 28, expressed remorse in court, saying, "I’m honestly so sorry to your family. What happened is … how do you say it … that shouldn’t have happened to nobody. I don’t know what to say." In contrast, Stewart-Sperry, 32, chose not to address the court.
The jury was presented with video footage from Pierzchala’s body camera, which became a pivotal piece of evidence in the trial. The footage captured the moments leading up to the shooting, including testimony from witnesses who had stopped to assist at the scene. Additionally, forensic experts testified that gunshot residue was found in McKenzie’s hoodie, and the Glock 19 handgun used in the shooting was traced back to him through DNA evidence.
Evidence revealed that the vehicle Pierzchala responded to had been stolen from a restaurant parking lot in Hamilton the day before the shooting. Items belonging to other individuals, including vehicle permit papers and a car key fob, were discovered in Stewart-Sperry’s backpack at the time of her arrest.
Prosecutor Fraser McCracken argued that the couple had intentionally killed the officer as they were running out of options to evade arrest. He asserted that Stewart-Sperry stepped in front of Pierzchala to allow McKenzie to prepare his weapon. However, Stewart-Sperry's defense lawyer, Scott Reid, contended that the prosecution's case was based on speculation, arguing that there was no concrete evidence that she was aware of McKenzie’s intentions to shoot.
McKenzie’s defense also sought to undermine the Crown's case, suggesting that witness descriptions of the shooter did not align with McKenzie’s appearance at the time of the incident. Despite these arguments, the jury ultimately found both defendants guilty of first-degree murder.
Following the verdict, OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique, along with Pierzchala’s family, released a statement acknowledging the trial as a challenging period for all involved. They expressed hope that the verdict would help the family find some closure. "This verdict is an important step as we focus on moving forward with continuing the important work Greg started and contributing to the everlasting impact he had on so many people, personally and professionally," the statement read.
The trial highlighted broader issues surrounding public safety and bail reform in Canada. Pierzchala’s death prompted significant discussions among police leaders and politicians regarding the need to restrict bail access for violent repeat offenders. At the time of McKenzie’s arrest, he had been denied bail on unrelated assault and weapons charges months prior to the shooting but was later released after a review.
In December 2023, a federal law was enacted requiring repeat offenders accused of violent crimes with weapons to prove they are not a safety or flight risk, reversing the previous burden of proof on the prosecution.
The courtroom was filled with supporters of Pierzchala during the trial, and the emotional weight of the proceedings was palpable as the jury delivered their verdict. Many in attendance were visibly moved, with members of Pierzchala’s family embracing one another after the verdict was announced.
Justice Goodman reiterated the severity of the crimes committed, stating that neither McKenzie nor Stewart-Sperry would be eligible for release before December 2047. They are also subject to a lifetime ban on possessing or carrying weapons and must provide DNA samples to the authorities.
As the community reflects on the tragic loss of Constable Pierzchala, who was remembered as a dedicated officer with a passion for service, discussions surrounding police safety and systemic reforms continue to resonate. Pierzchala had a promising career ahead of him, having begun his policing journey in Haldimand County in September 2021 after training as a Canadian military officer. He was celebrated not only for his professional dedication but also for his personal qualities, being described as a loving brother and a gifted athlete.
In January 2023, thousands attended Pierzchala’s funeral, where he was honored as a hero and an example of selfless service. His family and colleagues continue to advocate for reforms that ensure the safety of officers and the community they serve.
