Two teenagers, both aged 17 and hailing from Guelph, Ontario, were in court on Wednesday facing second-degree murder charges related to the death of 16-year-old Nash Dunlop. The pair, who are currently in custody, appeared via video link while their lawyer’s representative addressed the court on their behalf.
Due to a publication ban, specific details discussed in court cannot be disclosed. It is important to note that the identities of the charged individuals are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. The case is scheduled to reconvene on October 14.
The tragic incident unfolded on Wellington Road 29, just south of Fergus and the Eramosa-Garafraxa Townline, shortly after midnight on September 19. Emergency responders were alerted to a minivan striking a person, ultimately resulting in the death of a 16-year-old boy from Puslinch Township.
CBC News has verified with a close family friend that the victim, Dunlop, was the teenager fatally struck by the van on Wellington Road 29. The two 17-year-olds were formally charged with the offense on September 26.
Following Dunlop’s untimely passing, numerous tributes and heartfelt messages poured in from the community and basketball groups he was associated with, flooding social media platforms with condolences.
Franklyn Clarke, a coach at Vanguard North Basketball in the Toronto area, expressed his admiration for Nash, highlighting his anticipated participation in the academy’s upcoming prep-season. Clarke praised Dunlop as a remarkable individual both on and off the basketball court.
In response to the tragedy, the Guelph Youth Basketball Association lauded Dunlop’s athletic prowess and his unwavering commitment to excellence.
To provide support to students and families affected by the loss, The Waterloo-Wellington branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association and The Nightingale Centre organized a support evening at John F. Ross Collegiate Vocational Institute, Dunlop’s alma mater, with an additional session held at St. James Catholic High School.
The Upper Grand District School Board has ensured that counseling services and support personnel are readily available for students and staff requiring assistance during this challenging time.
Law enforcement officials have emphasized that the investigation into the incident remains active and ongoing.