A British national living in Canada tragically lost his life following a violent altercation with another individual during the early hours of the morning, as confirmed by authorities. Luke Kellett-Smith, 34, was involved in a verbal dispute with Benard Emeka Oneh, leading to physical confrontation outside a venue in Toronto. Luke, who had relocated to Toronto in 2019, was struck twice, resulting in him losing consciousness and passing away from his injuries on New Year’s Eve.
Emeka Oneh, 30, was promptly apprehended on the day of the incident and charged with aggravated assault. The charges were later elevated to manslaughter by the Toronto Police Service. The altercation occurred at the intersection of Front Street West and University Avenue, with Emeka Oneh fleeing the scene but being swiftly apprehended on the same day.
Emeka Oneh was expected to appear in court at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre. Details surrounding the relationship between the two individuals or the events leading up to the altercation remain unclear. Friends and family of Luke Kellett-Smith paid tribute to his adventurous spirit and warm personality, describing him as a beloved individual who left a lasting impact on those around him.
Luke, the eldest of three brothers, was fondly remembered by his loved ones and his local football club, Horndean FC, who expressed their condolences. To assist in repatriating Luke’s remains to the UK, a GoFundMe page has been set up, raising over £27,000 to date. The fundraising efforts aim to support Luke’s parents in bringing their son back to Woking for a final resting place alongside his late brother James.