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Closing Arguments in Vancouver Gang Shooting Trial

The trial of Kane Carter, accused of a gang-related shooting in Vancouver that resulted in the death of an innocent teenager, continued with closing arguments on Wednesday. Carter faces two counts of second-degree murder and one count of aggravated assault stemming from the incident that occurred in January 2018.

The tragic event led to the deaths of known gangster Kevin Whiteside and 15-year-old Alfred Wong from Coquitlam. Wong was tragically caught in the crossfire while returning home with his parents, struck by a stray bullet.

During the proceedings, the prosecution has been presenting a case primarily based on circumstantial evidence. On Wednesday, they showcased surveillance footage they allege indicates Carter was in a burgundy van at the scene of the shooting and detailed his movements shortly thereafter.

Additionally, the prosecution highlighted Carter’s actions following the incident, noting that he changed his phone number the day after the shooting and purchased a one-way ticket to Ontario shortly afterward. These moves were presented as efforts to evade detection and responsibility.

Crown’s Theory of the Case

The Crown argues that Carter traveled to Vancouver with the intent to assassinate Whiteside, who was allegedly in town to target another gang rival, Matthew Navas-Rivas. While Whiteside was killed on the sidewalk, Navas-Rivas fled the area but was subsequently murdered months later in a separate shooting incident.

The gunfire from the gang shooting also unintentionally affected two innocent vehicles, resulting in Wong’s death and injuring another individual who was grazed by a bullet. The prosecution has linked the burgundy van seen at the crime scene to a vehicle located at Carter’s residence in Surrey.

Investigators found a bloody tissue and DNA evidence related to Carter inside that vehicle, along with three spent bullet casings. However, the actual murder weapon has not been recovered, and no witnesses have identified Carter as the gunman.

Carter’s defense team is set to present their closing arguments on Thursday. B.C. Supreme Court Justice Catherine Wedge is anticipated to provide the jury with final instructions on Friday, guiding them as they prepare to deliberate on the case.

As the trial progresses, the implications of gang violence and its impact on innocent lives continue to resonate within the community, highlighting the tragic outcomes that can arise from such conflicts.

Source
globalnews.ca