(TIMMINS) – The Timmins Police Service is providing a comprehensive update regarding the homicide investigation into the death of Paula Mallette, 57, which has now led to the arrest of Dale HEAD, 38.
First and foremost, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Paula Mallette. This has been an incredibly difficult time for them, and our thoughts remain with those affected by this tragic loss.
The investigation began when officers responded to a residence in the area of Algonquin Boulevard West and Preston Street, where a suspicious death had been reported on March 18th, 2025. The Criminal Investigations Division (CID) immediately took over the case. As part of the investigation, several search warrants were executed at multiple residences and vehicles, as well as parcels of land in rural areas, yielding valuable evidence. Police also gathered surveillance footage from dashcams, local businesses, and police-operated cameras, which helped establish key details surrounding the incident.
Following a post-mortem examination, police confirmed the case as a homicide on March 21, 2025. The investigation determined that a weapon (not a firearm) had been used, causing blunt force trauma to the victim. It was also confirmed that HEAD and the victim were acquaintances and that this incident was not drug-motivated.
As the investigation progressed, Timmins Police obtained an arrest warrant for HEAD and made multiple efforts to locate him. Officers conducted searches at several locations, but when it became apparent that HEAD may have left the area, police escalated the matter by issuing a Canada-wide warrant for his arrest on a charge of First Degree Murder. Throughout this time, police received numerous tips from the public, which played a significant role in tracking his movements. While there was evidence to suggest he had fled Timmins, HEAD later returned to the area.
On the evening of March 24th, 2025, at approximately 8:15 PM, officers located HEAD in the area of Riverpark Road and Airport Road. HEAD complied with officers and was taken into custody without incident. HEAD has been scheduled to appear in court on Friday via video remand. The investigation remains ongoing as police continue to process evidence related to the case.
The Timmins Police Service would like to extend its sincere appreciation to the public for their cooperation and assistance throughout this investigation. The numerous tips and information provided were instrumental in leading to this arrest. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
