Steven Jones Trial Begins in Sault Ste. Marie Boardwalk Stabbing

An emotional frist day of testimony unfolded at the Sault Ste. Marie courthouse on Monday as the trial began for Steven Jones, accused of second-degree murder in the death of Taylor Marshall and attempted murder of Liam Frenette. The violent attack occurred on september 7, 2023, on the city’s boardwalk.

Details of the Incident and First-Day testimony

Jones appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to the charges.The trial, initially slated for eight weeks wiht a jury, was condensed to four weeks after the defense lawyer, Andrew Furgiuele, opted for a trial by judge alone.

Justice michael Varpio acknowledged the sensitive nature of the trial, suggesting anyone overwhelmed by the proceedings could leave the courtroom.

The prosecution’s Case

Assistant Crown attorney trent Wilson outlined the prosecution’s case, detailing the fatal injuries suffered by Taylor Marshall, who died from sharp and blunt force trauma, sustaining over 100 stab or cut wounds and blunt force trauma to her head and brain. Frenette sustained more than 20 knife wounds to his face, throat, chest, abdomen, and arm.

Liam Frenette’s Testimony

Liam Frenette was the first witness to testify. He recounted walking to Station Mall to withdraw money and purchase snacks before being attacked while sitting on a boardwalk bench. He described feeling a sudden attack from behind and realizing he was being stabbed, initially believing it was a case of mistaken identity. He testified yelling, “I don’t know you” as his attacker fled.

A video of the attack,recorded by a witness in a nearby car,was presented in court. Frenette identified himself and positively identified Jones as the attacker.

Frenette detailed his experience, stating he believed he was “trying to kill me” during the attack. He described receiving assistance from bystanders and police officers,including the application of a tourniquet to his arm. He spent approximately one week in the hospital recovering from his injuries, with full recovery taking six to eight months.

Cross-Examination and Witness Accounts

During cross-examination,defense lawyer David Hakim presented video evidence suggesting Jones disengaged before fleeing as bystanders approached,contradicting Frenette’s initial testimony.

Jacob Chapman, a witness who observed the attack from the Station mall parking lot, testified that he initially thought it was a fistfight before recognizing the violence. He confirmed seeing Jones flee the scene, though his 911 call transcript indicated he initially told the operator the attacker was “walking towards the mall.”

Constable christopher Doran of the Sault Ste. Marie Police service testified about apprehending Jones at a nearby loading dock at the former Walmart store. Surveillance footage showed Doran and other officers approaching Jones with firearms drawn. Doran described Jones’ initial non-compliance with commands before eventually surrendering.Police recovered bloody shoes and a backpack from the scene.

The Trial Continues

The trial is ongoing, with further testimony expected in the coming days. The case has drawn significant attention due to the shocking nature of the crime and its impact on the Sault Ste. Marie community.