The prosecution has dropped charges against a man who was accused of fatally shooting a 15-year-old boy in Toronto’s west end over a year ago. Abdul Yeberebaba was facing second-degree murder charges in connection to the death of Jahkai Jack. The incident took place on June 7, 2025, near Emmett Avenue and Jane Street in Toronto’s Mount Dennis neighborhood.

Additionally, charges against one alleged accomplice, Jayden Samuel-James, have also been withdrawn. Rajveer Singh Gill, the second alleged accomplice, was expected to have charges dropped as well. Samuel-James was facing charges of accessory after the fact to murder and obstructing justice, while Gill was charged with being an accessory after the fact to an indictable offense and obstructing justice.

The decision to drop the charges was made by the Crown attorney, David Newton, who stated in court that there was insufficient evidence to secure a conviction in the case. Newton emphasized the Crown’s responsibility to assess the likelihood of conviction and the public interest throughout the prosecution process.

Toronto police shared that Jack and his friends had encountered another group on Buttonwood Avenue and Charlton Settlement Avenue, leading to a verbal altercation that culminated in the fatal shooting of Jack. The police described the shooting as unprovoked and highlighted their thorough investigation into the tragic incident.

Responding to the Crown’s decision, Stephanie Sayer, a Toronto police spokesperson, acknowledged that the police had laid charges based on available evidence and belief in the accused’s involvement. Sayer reiterated that the final decision on prosecution rests with the Crown.