Ex-British soldier gets over 4 years in prison for manslaughter of Winnipeg man in Toronto bar
Former British Soldier Sentenced to Over Four Years for Manslaughter of Winnipeg Businessman
A former British soldier has been sentenced to more than four years in prison for the manslaughter of a Winnipeg businessman in a Toronto bar in August 2023. Ontario Superior Court Justice Katherine Corrick described the incident as a “vicious assault with tragic consequences.”
Craig Gibson, a 30-year-old former British corporal, struck Brett Sheffield, 38, three times in the head with his elbow following a verbal altercation at the Locals Only bar on King Street West. Sheffield succumbed to his injuries two days later from a ruptured artery at the base of his brain.
The altercation occurred during a stopover in Toronto while Gibson was on his way home to England. He met Sheffield, who was in the city for a business trip from Winnipeg. The two were seen socializing and consuming alcohol before Sheffield purchased cocaine and shared it openly.
A dispute arose when Sheffield held the cocaine up to Gibson’s nose, leading to Gibson striking Sheffield without warning. Despite being pulled away by others, Gibson continued to attempt to strike Sheffield, who was unable to defend himself. Sheffield was rushed to the hospital, where he tragically passed away.
Gibson was found guilty of manslaughter following a trial by jury, with his self-defence claim being dismissed. He was subsequently dishonorably discharged from the British Army, where he had served in various conflict zones.
Justice Corrick acknowledged the profound loss experienced by Sheffield’s loved ones, noting that no sentence could ever compensate for their grief. Gibson expressed deep remorse for his actions and issued a heartfelt apology to Sheffield’s family.
In considering the sentencing, Corrick took into account the fact that Gibson would be serving his sentence in a foreign country, far from his family and friends in England who may not be able to visit regularly.
