British man, 28, is charged with murder after brawl that left Canadian businessman dead in Toronto
A British man, 28, has been charged with murder following a brawl that left a Canadian businessman dead in Toronto
- Businessman Brett Sheffield, 38, was killed after a late-night argument that took place at a Toronto bar in August
- British resident Craig Gibson, 28, is charged with manslaughter in the case
A British citizen is in custody in Toronto after being accused of killing a beloved Canadian entrepreneur during an overnight brawl that took place in the city on August 28.
Police announced Monday that 28-year-old Craig Gibson, from an undisclosed location in the United Kingdom, has been charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of 38-year-old Brett Sheffield.
According to police, officers were called to an incident ‘in a bar’ near the city center at around 11.30pm. When they arrived, officers found Sheffield with life-threatening injuries.
The victim was rushed to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Reports from the time of the attack claim that Gibson fled the scene after the fight, but was apprehended a short time later. Photos from the scene of the brawl showed police cruisers parked outside a restaurant called Laissez Faire.
Brett Sheffield was rushed to a local hospital where he sadly succumbed to his injuries two days later
“He was such a great kid, he always treated me and everyone around him with the utmost respect. He will certainly be missed,” a friend said in a Facebook tribute to the victim
The suspect faced a bail hearing in Toronto on Monday, September 11. The verdict of that hearing has not been made public.
NextGen Drainage, a company founded by Sheffield, who went to his friends through Sheff, issued a statement after his death calling it the result of a “random act of violence.”
“Brett Sheffield, founder of NextGen Drainage Solutions, passed away on August 30 as a result of a random act of violence. His absence will be deeply felt by the community, our company and his extensive network of friends and colleagues.”
“Brett’s passion for helping everyone feel valued and cared for will continue to motivate us. We take comfort in our shared commitment to ensuring Brett’s legacy thrives. We appreciate your concern and patience as we support Brett’s family,” the statement said.
According to his LinkedIn page, Sheffield founded his company in 2011 and started numerous other businesses during his lifetime, including a farm and a gym. Sheffield graduated from Ohio State University in 2014.
‘One of the best guys I’ve ever known. He will be greatly missed by many people. Still can’t believe it’s actually true. I’m still waiting for that daily text from you. I’m going to miss you so much! I love you Brett!,” a friend wrote in a heartbreaking Facebook post.
“He was such a great kid, he always treated me and everyone around him with the utmost respect. He will certainly be missed,” said another friend.