A man in Cobalt, northern Ontario, has admitted to attempting to murder his 16-year-old former 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, after finishing work, was struck by an SUV driven by Gagnon as she got off a bus in Cobalt. Following the collision, Gagnon proceeded to attack her with a sword, resulting in severe injuries to her hands, including the loss of one hand.

Gagnon, who was 18 at the time of the assault, was taken into custody and charged with attempted murder and possession of a dangerous weapon. He has been in custody since then, regularly attending court sessions in Haileybury.

During his recent court appearance, Gagnon pleaded guilty to the attempted murder charge. The weapons possession charge is still pending and is anticipated to be addressed in the upcoming court proceedings.

While a sentencing date is yet to be set, the case is scheduled to return to Haileybury court on Sept. 16. Kaylie Smith, the victim, has been praised by her family for her strength and resilience throughout this ordeal.

For those in immediate danger or affected by intimate partner violence, seeking help from crisis lines and local support services is recommended.