A 23-year-old Ghanaian student, Alfred Okyere, was tragically stabbed to death during an altercation with a co-worker, just four months after relocating to Canada. The incident occurred at DSI Underground Canada, a mining supply company, where Alfred had recently started working part-time.
The suspect, 53-year-old Troy Francis Leclair, allegedly attacked Alfred during a workplace dispute. According to Alfred's sister, Lydia Obeng, the police revealed that he was stabbed 17 times within 30 seconds. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Alfred succumbed to his injuries.
“They told us there was an altercation, and he was stabbed 17 times in 30 seconds,” Ms. Obeng told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. “I know Alfred is very calm. He is never troublesome. It was a new job he told me about, and he started just last Wednesday.”
Ms. Obeng recounted the devastating moment police officers broke the news to her. “When the police came, I didn’t think it had anything to do with Alfred. He’s not the kind of person who causes trouble. When they brought me his bag with the packed lunch I had prepared for him, I finally realized it was true.”
The police confirmed Alfred’s death in a statement, stating, “Upon arrival, police located a 23-year-old male victim suffering from stab wounds. He was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.”
The motive behind the altercation has not been disclosed, and the family is yet to receive full details about the circumstances leading to the tragic event. Canadian authorities have since charged Mr. Leclair with murder.
Alfred, who had recently moved to Canada in 2024, was living with his sister, Lydia, and had high hopes for his future. His sudden death has left his family and loved ones in shock and grief.
The Ghanaian community in Canada and beyond has expressed condolences to the family, calling for justice for Alfred. Meanwhile, the case is being closely followed as authorities continue their investigation.