Vigil Tonight for Toronto Boy, 8, Killed by Stray Bullet

A candlelight vigil is scheduled for this evening to honor JahVai Roy, an eight-year-old boy tragically killed by a stray bullet while in bed with his family in Toronto last weekend. The incident occurred early on Saturday morning, around 12:30 a.m., when a bullet from a nearby shooting struck the family’s home in North York.

The bullet not only hit JahVai’s residence but also penetrated two other units in the apartment building. Thankfully, no other injuries were reported. The vigil is set to commence at 5 p.m. in close proximity to the site of the tragedy, with numerous city officials, including Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and local councillor Frances Nunziata, expected to attend, alongside hundreds of community members.

Community Remembers a Young Advocate

JahVai was a beloved figure in his community, described by family and friends as a curious and fearless boy, known for his advocacy against bullying. According to Marcell Wilson, a family friend, JahVai was a “genuinely good, happy, compassionate, kind, curious child,” who took care of his mother and siblings. “He was the type of boy that wanted to climb a tree, or if there was a bird, he’d want to pick it up and touch it,” Wilson remarked.

The family laid JahVai to rest yesterday at a funeral held in Wikwemikong First Nation on Manitoulin Island. As a tribute to the young boy, attendees at the vigil are encouraged to wear blue, which was his favorite color. A GoFundMe campaign set up to assist the family with funeral costs, relocation expenses, and trauma counseling has raised nearly $75,000 since its inception.

Calls for Action Against Gun Violence

Councillor Nunziata has expressed her sorrow over the incident, stating she has been in contact with JahVai’s family multiple times and plans to attend the vigil. “It’s just crazy what’s happening,” she commented earlier this week. “We’re not even safe in our own homes.”

Community advocates are urging action in response to this heartbreaking event, hoping it serves as a wake-up call to address the rising issue of gun violence. Wilson emphasized the need for collective efforts, stating, “We don’t want to see another JahVai Roy, ever. So let this be the last. And the only way this can be the last is that we all work together.”

In addition to the vigil, a rally against gun violence is planned for tomorrow in front of Toronto City Hall. Community members are expected to gather to voice their concerns and push for change. This report was first published on August 21, 2025, by The Canadian Press.