Girl set on fire at Saskatoon school describes how life has changed

A teen who was set on fire at Evan Hardy Collegiate in September 2024 says she is recovering but now avoids crowds and social contact; the offender pleaded guilty to attempted murder and related charges and a sentencing decision is scheduled for March 16.

A teen who was set on fire at a Saskatoon high school described in court how her life has changed and that she is in recovery. The attack took place in September 2024 at Evan Hardy Collegiate when a former friend splashed lighter fluid and set her alight. The alleged attacker, then 14, pleaded guilty to attempted murder and to causing bodily harm to a teacher who intervened. A sentencing hearing took place and Justice Krista Zerr is scheduled to deliver a decision on March 16. Known details: - The victim says she is recovering and now avoids large crowds and social contact. - The offender pleaded guilty last year to attempted murder and to unlawfully causing bodily harm to a teacher. - Both Crown and defence recommended a three-year maximum youth sentence, with two years in intensive rehabilitative custody and one year under community supervision. - The youth identities of both the victim and the offender are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Summary: The court heard victim impact statements describing ongoing recovery and changes to daily life, and defence submissions noted the offender's difficult background and mental health issues. Both legal teams recommended a three-year youth sentence, and Justice Zerr will announce her sentencing decision on March 16. Undetermined at this time.