12-year-old Alberta boy charged after younger brother repeatedly stabbed

Editor’s note: This article mentions extreme violence involving a child.

Lethbridge police say a 12-year-old boy has been charged with the attempted murder of his younger brother.

On Aug. 27, just after 4:30 p.m., police responded to a report that a seven-year-old boy had been stabbed at a northside residence. A 911 call was made after the victim’s father arrived home and located his seven-year-old son in serious medical distress.

The victim’s 12-year-old brother claimed an unknown male had entered the home and stabbed the child before fleeing the scene. EMS transported the victim to Chinook Regional Hospital with critical injuries and later airlifted to Edmonton Children’s Hospital.

Following the initial response, police determined very early in the investigation that there was no ongoing risk to neighbours or the public.

The investigation was assumed by the Criminal Investigation Section, and during a search of the property, police seized a knife, believed to be used in the attack. As the investigation progressed, evidence was obtained suggesting the 12-year-old boy may have been responsible for the stabbing and lied about an intruder entering the home.

The 12-year-old boy, who cannot be identified under provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, has been charged with attempted murder and aggravated assault. The boy is currently in custody awaiting a Judicial Interim Release hearing.

Child and Family Services have been contacted, and family members connected with the Victim/Witness Services Unit for additional support.

The seven-year-old victim remains in the hospital in stable condition, and the investigation is ongoing. Police say no further information will be released.