Full Breakdown
Sentencing Hearing for Teen Who Set Classmate on Fire in Saskatoon
2/27/2026, 10:31:38 AM
Incident Overview and Charges
On September 5, 2024, a 14-year-old girl at Evan Hardy Collegiate in Saskatoon poured gasoline from a water bottle over her 15-year-old classmate and ignited it, resulting in severe burns to 40% of the victim's body. The attack occurred during lunch, shortly after the start of the school year, and left the victim hospitalized for months, requiring multiple surgeries. The young offender, who has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, early onset schizophrenia, cannabis use disorder, and pyromania disorder, pleaded guilty to attempted murder and unlawfully causing bodily harm to a teacher who intervened.
Sentencing Recommendations
During a recent hearing at the Court of King's Bench, Crown prosecutor Zachary Huywan and defense lawyers jointly recommended a maximum youth sentence of three years, which includes two years of secure custody followed by one year of community supervision. This recommendation aligns with the Intensive Rehabilitative Custody and Supervision (IRCS) program, designed for young offenders with mental health issues. Huywan emphasized the necessity of considering the offender's diminished moral culpability, as outlined by a recent Supreme Court of Canada ruling.
Victim Impact Statements
The court heard emotional victim impact statements from the victim's family, friends, and school staff. The victim, who watched the proceedings via video link, expressed her struggles with fear and social anxiety post-attack. Her mother read a statement on her behalf, highlighting the lasting psychological and physical scars, including difficulties in social interactions and ongoing medical treatments. A close friend of the victim also shared her trauma, recalling flashbacks to the day of the incident.
Criticism of School Response
The victim's family criticized the school and police for failing to act on prior warnings about escalating harassment from the offender. They reported multiple incidents of threatening behavior leading up to the attack, which included a safety plan that inadequately addressed the risk posed by the offender. The victim's mother expressed frustration, stating, “We did everything we thought we could to keep our daughter safe.”
Court Proceedings and Future Considerations
Justice Krista Zerr has reserved her decision on sentencing until March 16, 2025, to further consider the implications of the case and the victim impact statements. The proposed sentence aims to balance accountability with the potential for rehabilitation, given the offender's age and mental health challenges.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I know sorry is not enough, but it is how I truly feel,” — Young Offender
- “That day shook me to the core,” — Victim's Mother
- “It feels like the offender attacked the whole family.” — Victim's Mother
This case highlights the complexities of youth sentencing, particularly in instances involving severe violence and mental health issues, raising questions about the adequacy of protective measures in educational environments.
