Police release new photo, offer $100K reward in Fort Erie double murder

Niagara Regional Police Service is doubling the reward for information in the murders of two women at a Fort Erie Airbnb earlier this year.

Twenty-year-old Julianna Pannunzio, of Windsor, and 18-year-old Christine Crooks, of Toronto, were gunned down at a birthday party inside a short-term rental on Jan. 19.

Police responded to reports of shots being fired shortly after 4 a.m. When officers arrived, they discovered the bodies of the women with “obvious signs of trauma.” Pannunzio and Crooks both died at the scene from gunshot wounds.

Police say everyone fled the area before officers arrived, however, investigators determined a group of individuals from outside the Niagara Region were illegally gathered at the home.

Investigators have now increased the reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for these murders to $100,000.

WATCH BELOW: Niagara police provide update on double murder investigation

Detectives say they have identified most of the people at the party that night but are hoping the increased reward will encourage others to come forward.

“Some of them have been spoken to and have provided valuable information,” said Staff Sgt. Steve Magistrale in a video posted online. “However, others simply refuse to cooperate.”

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Police also released a new photograph taken inside the home the night of the murders. Investigators are hoping someone can identify a man and woman seen in the image.

“Anyone who was at the party that night is strongly encouraged to speak with investigators,” said Magistrale.

Police are also asking members of the community who may have information that could help the investigation to contact the dedicated Homicide Unit tip line at 289-248-1058.