Scottish soldier charged with murder after alleged assault in Toronto
A soldier in the British Army has been charged with second degree murder in Canada after he allegedly assaulted a businessman in downtown Toronto.
Corporal Craig Gibson, 28, was arrested after police were called to a disturbance on a street in Canada’s largest city at around 11.25pm on August 28.
Victim Brett Sheffield was given ‘life-saving measures’ at the scene before being transferred to hospital with life-threatening injuries, Toronto Police said.
The 38-year-old from Manitoba, who founded the company NextGen Drainage Solutions in 2011, died two days after the incident.
Gibson, reportedly from Dalry in Ayrshire, was scheduled to appear at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre at 10am on Monday.
The result of the hearing has not been made publicly available.
According to the Mail Online, Gibson is a soldier in The Highlanders, 4th Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland.
Citing defence sources, the news site reported he is accused of striking Mr Sheffield ‘once in the jaw’.
A spokesperson for the British Army said: ‘We can confirm a British soldier has been arrested and charged for second degree murder by the Toronto Police, Canada.
‘Our thoughts are with the family of the victim at this tragic time.
‘As the matter is the subject of an ongoing investigation by the Canadian authorities, it would be inappropriate to comment further.’
In a statement posted to social media, NextGen Drainage said: ‘[Mr Sheffield’s] absence is felt deeply across the community, our company, and his vast network of friends and colleagues.
‘Brett’s passion for helping every person feel valued and cared for, will continue to motivate us.
‘We are finding comfort in our shared commitment to ensuring Brett’s legacy thrives.’
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