A man hailing from the northern Ontario town of Cobalt has admitted to the attempted murder of his 16-year-old former girlfriend using a sword two years ago. Phillipe Rivard Gagnon, aged 20, made this confession in court at the Haileybury courthouse earlier this week.
The incident occurred on the evening of November 3, 2024, when Kaylie Smith, returning home from work, was struck by an SUV as she disembarked a transit bus in Cobalt. Subsequently, Gagnon, driving the vehicle, proceeded to assault her with a sword, according to the Ontario Provincial Police.
In discussions with the media, Kaylie’s family revealed that one of her hands was severed, while the other was severely injured. Gagnon, who was 18 at the time of the assault, was apprehended and charged with attempted murder and possession of a dangerous weapon.
Since his arrest, Gagnon has been in custody and has been transferred from the North Bay jail to attend court sessions in Haileybury over the past two years. During his recent court appearance, Gagnon pleaded guilty to the charge of attempted murder, while the weapons offense remains pending and is anticipated to be addressed by the judiciary in the following months.
Although a sentencing date is yet to be arranged, the case is scheduled to return to Haileybury court on September 16. Kaylie Smith, the victim of the attack, has been described as ‘strong’ and ‘resilient’ by her family members.
For individuals facing immediate danger or concerned about their safety due to intimate partner violence, calling 911 is advised. Those impacted by family or intimate partner violence can seek assistance through crisis lines and local support services.
