A fifth girl accused in the death of a homeless man in Toronto’s downtown core is expected to plead guilty to manslaughter on June 24. This development comes after four other girls are also expected to enter guilty pleas in the coming days and weeks, although the specific charges have not been disclosed by the court.
The incident dates back to December 2022 when three 13-year-olds, three 14-year-olds, and two 16-year-olds were charged with second-degree murder in the death of Kenneth Lee, a 59-year-old man who was living in the city’s shelter system. The tragic event unfolded after Lee was allegedly stabbed by eight teen girls from various homes across the Greater Toronto Area.
Following a recent court hearing, a judge has committed six of the teens to trial on second-degree murder charges, while the remaining two are facing the lesser charge of manslaughter. It is worth noting that due to their age, none of the accused girls can be identified under the law.
According to police reports, the accused girls are believed to have initially connected on social media before meeting in person, leading to the fatal confrontation with Lee. Community members have described Lee as a kind and quiet man who was simply trying to defend a friend before he was tragically attacked.
The case has sparked outrage and concern among residents of Toronto, highlighting the importance of addressing youth violence and ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals in the community. As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on seeking justice for the victim and holding those responsible for his untimely death accountable.
This story serves as a stark reminder of the impact of violence on individuals and communities, emphasizing the need for support and intervention to prevent such tragedies from reoccurring. The upcoming court proceedings will shed further light on the circumstances surrounding the incident and the actions of the accused girls involved in this heartbreaking case.