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Sentence Delivered for Manslaughter
A 17-year-old boy received 10 months in youth custody for his role in the fatal Halifax mall stabbing of 16-year-old Ahmad Al Marrach. The incident occurred in April 2024. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the fall of 2024. The court added 17 months of community supervision with intensive mental health treatment. Including 15 months already served, the total sentence comes to 27 months.
Details of the Attack
The attack happened in a parkade next to Halifax Shopping Centre. Security cameras and a cellphone video captured the violent scene. Judge Mark Heerema said the teen kicked Al Marrach in the head at least 15 times before walking away. The teen brought a knife, along with three others, to ambush the victim. All four attackers initially faced second-degree murder charges.
Judge’s Words and Teen’s Background
Judge Heerema condemned the crime, calling it “senseless” and “profoundly unfair.” He directly addressed the teen:
“You’re at a fork in the road. What kind of man do you want to be?” The teen has a troubled past, including drug use and a string of criminal offenses—robbery, assault, and breaking and entering. He once bragged to his mother about wanting to be a gangster. Although he now claims to want change, the judge questioned the authenticity of that transformation.
Remembering the Victim
Ahmad Al Marrach was a Grade 10 student at Citadel High School. His family came to Canada in 2016 as refugees from Syria. Known as kind and thoughtful, his death left a deep mark on the community and sparked renewed debate about youth violence.
Other Sentences in the Case
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A 14-year-old girl, who filmed the attack, pleaded guilty to manslaughter. She received three months in custody and two years of community supervision.
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The 14-year-old boy who stabbed Al Marrach admitted to second-degree murder. His sentencing continues in September.
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Another 17-year-old, accused of organizing the fight, was convicted of manslaughter. His sentencing hearing starts on October 20.
