More than two years after the death of 22-year-old Taylor Marshall, the trial of Steven Jones began Monday in Sault Ste. Marie. Jones faces charges of second-degree murder in connection with Marshall’s death and attempted murder for a violent attack on Liam Frenette.
Details of the Attack
The events unfolded on September 7, 2023, on the city’s boardwalk. Assistant Crown attorney Trent Wilson detailed the extent of the injuries suffered by both victims, stating Marshall sustained over 100 stab or cut wounds, as well as blunt force trauma to her head and brain. Frenette suffered more than 20 knife wounds to his face, throat, chest, abdomen, and arm.
Frenette, the first of eight witnesses, testified that he was attacked from behind while sitting on a bench after visiting Station Mall. He initially believed he was being punched before realizing his attacker wielded a knife. He stated he yelled, “I don’t know you,” during the assault. A video of the attack, recorded by a witness in a nearby car, was presented in court, and Frenette identified Jones as his attacker.
Frenette recounted a harrowing experience, stating, “I thought he was trying to kill me.” He received immediate assistance from bystanders and police, including the application of a tourniquet to his arm, before being transported to Sault Area Hospital where he remained for approximately one week. His injuries required six to eight months to heal.
Defense Challenges Witness Testimony
During cross-examination, defence lawyer David Hakim questioned Frenette about his initial statement that Jones “ran off” after the attack. Hakim presented the video evidence, suggesting Jones ceased the attack before bystanders approached. Witness Jacob Chapman, who observed the attack from the Station Mall parking lot, initially testified that Jones also “ran off,” but later, during cross-examination, a 911 call transcript revealed he told the operator the attacker was “walking towards the mall.”
Police Constable Christopher Doran testified that he located Jones at a nearby loading dock after being directed by mall security. Doran stated Jones initially did not comply with orders to stop, walking approximately 30 to 40 feet toward the officer before complying. A backpack and a pair of bloody shoes were recovered at the scene.
What’s Next?
The trial is scheduled to continue on Tuesday with further witness testimony. It is possible the Crown will present forensic evidence linking Jones to the crimes. The defence may continue to challenge the reliability of witness accounts and present evidence to support their client’s claims. Ultimately, Justice Michael Varpio will need to determine whether the Crown has proven Jones’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Steven Jones facing?
Steven Jones is facing charges of second-degree murder in connection with the death of Taylor Marshall and attempted murder for the attack on Liam Frenette.
Where did the attack on Liam Frenette take place?
The attack on Liam Frenette took place on the boardwalk in Sault Ste. Marie on September 7, 2023.
How long is the trial expected to last?
The trial was initially scheduled for eight weeks, but has been reduced to four weeks following a decision by the defence to proceed with a trial by judge alone.
How might differing accounts of the events influence the outcome of the trial?
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