A British citizen living in Canada was tragically killed following a heated argument with another individual in Toronto, as reported by the police. Luke Kellett-Smith, aged 34, encountered Benard Emeka Oneh, 30, on the night of December 28, resulting in a physical altercation outside a venue in the city. Kellett-Smith, who had relocated to Toronto in 2019, was struck twice during the incident, leading to his unconsciousness and subsequent death on New Year’s Eve.
Emeka Oneh was promptly apprehended on the same day and accused of the assault. Initially charged with aggravated assault, the allegations were later elevated to manslaughter by the Toronto Police Service. The altercation took place at Front Street West and University Avenue, where Oneh allegedly fled but was swiftly captured.
Oneh was expected to appear at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre for proceedings. The relationship between the two individuals and the events preceding the altercation remain unclear.
Friends and family of Luke Kellett-Smith paid heartfelt tributes to the adventurous and sociable Brit. Described as a “gentle giant,” Luke’s loved ones highlighted his positive impact on everyone he met. Additionally, a GoFundMe page has been established to support the repatriation of Luke’s remains to the UK, which has garnered significant donations.
The fundraiser aims to assist Luke’s parents, who have tragically lost two of their three sons, in bringing him back to Woking for a final resting place alongside his late brother James.