Suspicious death ruled a “firearm-related homicide,” victim identified as missing person

EGAN TOWNSHIP – A man reported missing earlier this month has been identified as the body found near Matheson, with police saying it is believed to be a “gun-related homicide.”

Police continue to search for Lucas MacDonald, 43, who South Porcupine OPP believe may have the weapon and information about the death.

On May 23, Ontario Provincial Police found a body in a wooded area in Egan Township, southwest of Matheson. The victim was identified as Marcel Thoma, 30, of Petawawa, a person who was reported missing and was last in contact with people on May 17 saying he was about 30 minutes away west of Matheson.

Police say the investigation is being treated as a “firearm-related homicide.”

MacDonald lives in Egan Township and has two outstanding warrants for his arrest for breach of recognizance in unrelated cases.

“If you find him, be extremely cautious, call the police and do not approach,” the Ontario Provincial Police said in a news release issued May 25.

MacDonald is 5' 8″, dark collar-length hair with some gray and a thin short beard. He was last seen wearing a ball cap with a bandana underneath and wraparound sunglasses.

“The OPP reminds all members of the public to be aware of their surroundings and personal safety at all times and to call police to report any suspicious activity,” police said.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information about the suspicious death investigation or the whereabouts of MacDonald is asked to call the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.