Jahkai Jack Obituary, Death; – Toronto police have identified the 15-year-old boy who was shot and killed in the Mount Dennis neighbourhood over the weekend. Authorities report that Jahkai Jack is the city’s 14th homicide victim this year.
A witness informed CTV News Toronto on Monday that Jack was with two friends near a bench located at the intersection of Buttonwood and Charlton Settlement avenues, to the west of Weston Road and Jane Street, when he was shot on Saturday night.
The witness recounted hearing the friends calling for assistance while they were carrying Jack. He mentioned that he dialed 911 but was placed on hold for 10 to 15 minutes, which led him to flag down a passing vehicle in an effort to get the boy help at the nearby West Park Healthcare Centre.
According to police, Jack was subsequently transported to a trauma centre, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. The suspect fled the scene prior to the arrival of officers, as stated by the police. No description of the suspect has been made public.
The motive for the shooting remains unclear. Homicide investigators are urging anyone with information to contact them at 416-808-7400 or to reach out to Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
In the meantime, Toronto Paramedic Services is evaluating their response time to the incident. On Tuesday, Mayor Olivia Chow addressed reports indicating that the first caller had to wait six minutes and 43 seconds before being able to speak with someone, labeling it as “unacceptable.”
“People need immediate assistance when they call. As I have stated, every moment is crucial,” Chow remarked.
