Speak Up For Jahkai
Police are appealing information to help solve the unprovoked murder of 15-year-old Jahkai Jack in the Mount Dennis neighbourhood last month that shattered his family.
“He was just 15 years old and he had his whole life ahead of him. He was not involved in any gangs or any kind of criminality. This was a completely unprovoked act of violence,” Detective Sergeant Phil Campbell said at a July 9 news conference near where the teen was shot. “Jahkai is survived by his many family members who are devastated by his loss.”
On June 7 around 10.30 p.m. Jahkai Jack and some friends went to the area of Buttonwood Ave. and Charlton Settlement Ave. where they met another group.
One male in dark clothing from that group began a verbal exchange with Jack. The male pulled out a gun and shot the teenager, who later succumbed to his injuries.
Campbell is urging the person responsible for Jack’s death to turn himself in.
“If you are watching this, you need to understand that your actions have destroyed a family,” he said. “I am asking you to do the right thing, and that is turn yourself into police.”
Campbell is also asking anyone who was in the area and might have saw what happened to contact police.
“Help us find the person who killed Jahkai,” he said.
Campbell issued a reminder that being an accessory after the fact to murder is a criminal offence.
“If our investigation determines that you knew about the murder and helped the suspect in any way, whether by helping them escape or destroying evidence, you could face charges,” he said.
He assured the public that his unit, supported by all police resources and 12 Division officers, has been working tirelessly on the case.
“We will continue to pursue every lead and we will leave no stone unturned,” Campbell said.
Superintendent Richard Harris said Jack’s death is an unimaginable loss for his family, friends, school community and the entire neighbourhood.
“A 15-year-old boy was taken from his loved ones in a senseless act of violence,” he said. “As parents and as officers who work in and know this community, I can tell you this has shaken us all of us. Jahkai should have made it home that night. He should still be here today. And I want his family to know that we share in their grief.”
The 12 Division Unit Commander said the tragedy has left a deep scar on those who knew Jahkai and the entire community.
“But I also know this is a strong and resilient community and I believe people will come forward to help bring accountability and justice,” Harris said. “Our officers and 12 Division are working hand-in-hand with the Homicide Unit and investigators to find the person who did this. To anyone who knows something, please speak up. Do it for Jahkai. Do it for his family. And do it for the community.”
Anyone with information can call 416-808-1200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a tip online at 222tips.com
