Sign in Subscribe
Murder

Teenager Released on Bail After Pleading Guilty to Accessory Charges in Mass Shooting

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

In a surprise turn of events, a teenager was released on bail Monday after pleading guilty to being an accessory after the fact in connection with a mass shooting at a "friendly" and "casual" Sunday-night gathering in Etobicoke on June 2, 2024. The 16-year-old boy, who cannot be identified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, was involved in a mass shooting that resulted in the deaths of two people and injured three others. The prosecution stayed two first-degree murder and seven attempted murder charges due to a lack of evidence.

Key Takeaways:

  • The teenager pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact to the shooting, which occurred when he was 14.
  • He also admitted to possessing a loaded firearm and a stolen vehicle used in the crime.
  • The Crown attorney stated that there is no evidence sufficient for a reasonable prospect of conviction on the original charges.
  • The boy's plea came prior to a preliminary hearing, where a judge would decide if there was enough evidence to commit him to stand trial.
  • The teenager's family erupted in cheers and hugs after he was released on bail, while the family of one of the victims expressed disappointment and frustration.
  • The Crown is consenting to the teen's release on bail pending sentencing, with a hearing scheduled for later this year.
  • The incident highlights concerns about the Youth Criminal Justice Act and the need for harsher consequences for young offenders.

Statistics:

  • 23 rounds of 9 mm cartridges were discharged during the shooting, striking five victims.
  • Two people, Delroy (George) Parkes and Seymour Gibbs, died in the shooting.
  • Three others were injured in the incident.
  • The teenager was 14 years old at the time of the shooting and 16 years old at the time of his plea.
  • The stolen vehicle used in the crime was a dark grey Ford F-150 pickup truck.
  • The loaded firearm possessed by the teenager was not involved in the shooting.

Sources:

  • Toronto Star, "Teenager pleads guilty to being accessory after fact in Etobicoke shooting", [June 2024]
  • Crown attorney's statement in court, as reported by Toronto Star, "Teenager pleads guilty to being accessory after fact in Etobicoke shooting", [June 2024]

Read more