The adolescent ladies, most of whom were under 16 years old, allegedly attacked a 59-year-old man with a “swarming mob mentality” that they developed over social media.
After a man was fatally stabbed in Toronto, eight adolescent girls who allegedly met through social media were charged with murder.
Investigators allege that the females assaulted and stabbed the 59-year-old man early Sunday morning in the downtown section of the Canadian city.
The victim was transported to the hospital, where he died.
According to the police, three 13-year-old girls, three 14-year-old girls, and two 16-year-old females were apprehended near the scene of the incident.
Detective Sergeant Terry Browne stated that investigators believe the girls attempted to steal an alcoholic beverage from the man.
He stated that everyone was “equally responsible.”
DS Browne stated, “There is no doubt in our minds that they were acting as one entity with a swarming mob mentality when they attacked this victim.”
He stated that several guns were confiscated, but failed to specify the types. He also stated that three of the girls had prior interactions with law enforcement.
The females met over social media, but according to DS Browne, police “don’t know how or why they met that evening.”
“It’s strange that they all connected and made their way to downtown Toronto together. Their major residences are scattered,” he stated.
“I’ve been in law enforcement for nearly 35 years, and you’d think I’ve seen it all,” said DS Browne.
“Anyone who is not astonished to hear something like this has given up and conceded that everything is possible in this world.
“Eight young girls, the majority of whom were under the age of 16.” If this is not scary and surprising to everyone, then simply we’re all in trouble.”
Police have communicated with the parents of the teens, according to DS Browne.
“I can assure you that it was a shock to learn that their children were part of such an event,” he said.
The victim resided at a homeless shelter and has not yet been identified, according to DS Browne.
He stated that they will explore whether “swarming” has experienced a boom in social media popularity.
The officer stated that 20 or 30 years ago, young adolescent guys in Toronto would swarm others and attempt to steal Dr. Martens’s boots or Air Jordan shoes, but this practise has since died out.
The Canadian government cannot publicize the girls’ names because they are minors. They have had their initial court appearance and are still detained.
The girls will next appear in court on December 29.
