Posted on: November 15, 2024, 01:24h.
Last updated on: November 15, 2024, 01:24h.
Toronto police have pressed charges against a teenager for the second-degree murder of online poker player, Matthew Bergart.
The 16-year-old, who remains unnamed due to being a minor, was among 23 individuals apprehended in a shootout with law enforcement at a recording studio in the city.
Home Invasion
Bergart, aged 30, was fatally shot on April 25, 2024, during a targeted home invasion in Toronto’s Etobicoke district.
Three suspects donning dark clothing and balaclavas entered the property, demanding valuables before fatally shooting Bergart multiple times.
The property owner, not the victim, was the intended target of the robbery. Police clarified that Bergart was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
“This was a case where a wrong choice of breaking and entering escalated into murder,” Det. Sgt. Brandon Price stated. “Fortunately, the suspect was apprehended in the shootout, removing him from the streets.”
Dramatic Shootout
On that Monday, undercover officers were present near the recording studio in search of a robbery suspect. A stolen vehicle arrived at the nearby FreshCo supermarket parking lot, with three individuals exiting and opening fire at the studio hosting a birthday party.
Attendees at the studio retaliated with gunfire, resulting in over 100 bullets being discharged, some hitting an unmarked police vehicle. Thankfully, no casualties or injuries were reported.
Police contained the vehicle in the parking lot, apprehending one suspect following a chase. The other two suspects managed to flee. Additionally, 21 individuals were arrested inside the recording studio, with eight facing charges that include unauthorized possession of firearms.
Staff Sgt. Joe Matthews expressed deep concern over the involvement of numerous teenagers in the incident.
“It is alarming that the young individuals in our custody are already deeply engrossed in serious activities and possess high-powered firearms,” he remarked.
‘Dared to Dream’
Bergart was remembered by the poker community as a courageous player who competed with some of the world’s best at high stakes, primarily engaging in online tournaments with limited personal information publicized.
A GoFundMe page was established to assist his family, highlighting his musical talents and daring creativity in both music and work.