A man in Cobalt, northern Ontario, has admitted to attempting to murder his 16-year-old ex-girlfriend with a sword two years ago. Phillipe Rivard Gagnon, 20, made the guilty plea at the Haileybury courthouse this week.
The incident occurred on Nov. 3, 2024, when Kaylie Smith was struck by an SUV driven by Gagnon as she was disembarking from a transit bus in Cobalt. Following the collision, Gagnon proceeded to assault her with a sword, causing severe injuries to her hands.
Gagnon, who was 18 at the time of the attack, was apprehended and charged with attempted murder and possession of a dangerous weapon. He has been in custody since the incident and has been transported from North Bay jail to Haileybury for court appearances.
During his recent court appearance, Gagnon pleaded guilty to the attempted murder charge, while the weapons possession charge remains pending. The sentencing hearing is yet to be scheduled, but the case is set to return to Haileybury court on Sept. 16.
Kaylie Smith, the victim of the attack, has been praised by her family for her strength and resilience throughout the ordeal.
For immediate assistance in cases of danger or domestic violence, individuals are advised to contact 911 or seek support from crisis lines and local services.