Peel Regional Police released the cause of death this morning, revealing she died of asphyxiation from pressure to the face and neck.
Jason Osborne, 22, also of Erin Mills, was charged Wednesday morning with first-degree murder. He had dated Neff and their relationship was described by Peel Regional Police as "on again, off again."
Neff, a former Applewood Acres Public School and Humber College student, had developmental disabilities. Police wouldn't comment officially on whether the accused also has a similar disability. However, police sources and neighbours who live in the suspect's South Millway townhouse complex said that is the case.
Neff's body was found by police Tuesday in a heavily wooded area of Windy Hollow Park, located east of Erin Mills Pkwy., just off The Collegeway, more than 12 hours after she disappeared while walking her dog.
According to police, Neff failed to return to her parents' Broadhollow Gate home, which is only steps from the park, after going out to walk the family pet late Monday night.
Neff reportedly left with a male friend at about 10 p.m. to walk the dog. Police sources say Neff and her friend met up with two other men.
When the dog returned alone, Neff's family called police.
lrosella@mississauga.net
