British soldier charged with murder in Canada

British soldier Craig Gibson, 28, has been charged in Canada with the second-degree murder of Brett Sheffield. 

Gibson is accused of assaulting Sheffield in Toronto city centre at 23:25 local time on Monday 28 August. 

Sheffield, 38, was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and died two days later. 

Gibson appeared in court on Monday charged with his murder, according to Toronto Police.

Police say “life-saving measures” were attempted at the scene before Sheffield was taken to hospital. 

A spokesperson for the British Army said: “We can confirm a British soldier has been arrested and charged for second-degree murder by the Toronto Police, Canada.

“Our thoughts are with the family of the victim at this tragic time.

“As the matter is the subject of an ongoing investigation by the Canadian authorities, it would be inappropriate to comment further.”

Sheffield, a businessman from Manitoba, founded NextGen Drainage. A tribute was posted on social media by his company. 

“His absence is felt deeply across the community, our company, and his vast network of friends and colleagues,” a spokesperson for NextGen Drainage said.

“Brett’s passion for helping every person feel valued and cared for will continue to motivate us.”