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 got off a transit bus in Cobalt. Following the collision, Gagnon proceeded to attack her with a sword, resulting in severe injuries to her hands according to statements from Smith’s family.
Gagnon, who was 18 at the time of the assault, was apprehended and charged with attempted murder and possession of a dangerous weapon. He has been in custody since the incident and has been transferred from North Bay jail to attend court sessions in Haileybury over the last two years. During his recent court appearance, Gagnon pleaded guilty to the attempted murder charge. The weapons offense against him is pending court resolution in the upcoming months. A sentencing date has not been set, but the case is scheduled to return to Haileybury court on Sept. 16.
Kaylie Smith, the victim, has been commended by her family for her strength and resilience in coping with the aftermath of the attack. For immediate assistance in cases of danger or intimate partner violence, individuals are urged to contact emergency services by calling 911. Support and resources for those affected by family or intimate partner violence can be found through crisis lines and local support services.