Dufferin OPP issued arrest warrant in Shelburne homicide

Written By Paula Brown

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Dufferin OPP have issued an arrest warrant for a 44-year-old man in connection to the recent murder of a woman in Shelburne.

Scott Eric Pinney of Orangeville is wanted for second degree murder in the death of 65-year-old Debra Neale, whose body was discovered by police following a welfare check last Saturday (Jan. 8).

Dufferin OPP officers were called to a home on Main Street in Shelburne shortly before 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 8 to check on the well-being of an individual, and discovered the deceased person inside. 

An initial press release from Dufferin OPP on Jan. 9 noted the death as “suspicious”, and was later confirmed a homicide. 

Investigators are asking for the public's assistance in locating Pinney, but urge anyone who sees him not to approach. Instead, call 9-1-1 and provide the details of his location. 

Police say Pinney may be driving a white, 2019 Honda Civic with the Ontario licence plate CTPC 389. The vehicle has minor damage to the front, right corner.

The Dufferin OPP Crime Unit is continuing the investigation under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), with assistance from OPP Forensic Identification Services (FIS) and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario and the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service. 

Anyone who has any information regarding the whereabouts of Scott Eric Pinney is asked to contact the Dufferin OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).