© 2026 Western New York Public Broadcasting Association

140 Lower Terrace St.
Buffalo, NY 14202

Toronto Address:
130 Queens Quay E.
Suite 903
Toronto, ON M5A 0P6


Mailing Address:
Horizons Plaza P.O. Box 1263
Buffalo, NY 14240-1263

Buffalo Toronto Public Media | Phone 716-845-7000
BTPM NPR Newsroom | Phone: 716-845-7040
Differing shades of blue wavering throughout the image
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Conviction made in 1993 Tonawanda strangulation case

A City of Tonawanda home invasion and murder case from 1993 was closed Friday when an Erie County jury found Brian Scott Lorenzo, 56, guilty of two counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree burglary.

The homeowner, 33-year-old Deborah Meindl, died by ligature strangulation, having been found in the dining room by her 10-year-old daughter when she arrived home from school on Feb. 17, 1993.

Lorenzo, who is also known as Brian Scott Lorenz, was convicted following a nine-day trial and six-hour deliberation.

"The passage of time presents significant challenges in any prosecution, and this case was no exception," District Attorney Mike Keane said in a statement. "This outcome is not just a legal victory - it is a testament to the persistence of truth and the unwavering commitment of dedicated public servants tasked with the pursuit of justice."

Keane also noted and recognized Meindl's youngest daughter, Lisa, and sister, Lynne, who were present throughout the trial.

Lorenzo is being held without bail and will be sentenced July 13.