A man from Cobalt in 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 plea at the Haileybury courthouse this week. The incident occurred on Nov. 3, 2024, when Kaylie Smith was hit by an SUV driven by Gagnon as she got off a transit bus in Cobalt. Following the collision, Gagnon attacked her with the sword, resulting in severe injuries to Kaylie’s hands. Gagnon, who was 18 at the time of the attack, was arrested and charged with attempted murder and possession of a dangerous weapon. He has been in custody since then and has been transferred from North Bay jail to Haileybury for court appearances. During his recent court appearance, Gagnon pleaded guilty to the attempted murder charge, while the weapons charge is pending further court proceedings. A sentencing date is yet to be determined, with the case scheduled to return to Haileybury court on Sept. 16. Kaylie Smith, the victim, has been praised by her family for her strength and resilience. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing family or intimate partner violence, please seek help through crisis lines and local support services.
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