On August 20, 2023, 25-year-old Tyler Abbott stabbed Theresa Agawa near Queen Street West. The wound punctured her small bowel. According to a pathologist, the injury was not immediately fatal. According to CTV News, when a surgeon initially offered exploratory surgery, Agawa declined. Roughly two weeks later, she died from the injury.

Abbott was subsequently charged with second-degree murder.

Over time, the case moved through the court system, and several factors ultimately led to a resolution. On Monday, Justice Michael Varpio accepted a joint submission from the Crown and defence allowing Abbott to plead guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter instead of second-degree murder.

Appearing virtually from the Algoma Remand and Treatment Centre, Abbott expressed remorse for his actions. He offered condolences to Agawa’s family and said he never intended to kill her.

Justice Varpio agreed that an eight-year penitentiary sentence was appropriate, taking into account the circumstances of the stabbing and the profound impact on Agawa and her loved ones. The eight-year sentence will be served consecutively to a separate four-year sentence Abbott received last December for aggravated assault.