The criminal charge laid in the death of a Sydney Academy student who was struck by a school bus has left the student body conflicted, and a dark cloud hanging over the school.
A 15-year-old student has been charged in the death of 18-year-old Christopher Walter Chafe.
The teen, who cannot be named, is charged with criminal negligence causing death, and has been suspended from school.
The Cape Breton-Victoria Regional School Board won’t comment on the situation, but students at the school are expressing strong, and mixedfeelings.
“It’s bad enough. It was an accident and he has to live with it, but why charge him? It’s ridiculous,” said one student.
Another student, Collin Power, said he didn’t agree with the charge.
“I don’t personally, no. But I know people that do, so it’s just a matter of opinion,” said Power, a Grade 11 student.
The 15-year-old accused was released on a number of conditions, including not to have contact with 10 individuals, not to possess firearms, and a ban from school board property.
Cape Breton Regional Police would not elaborate on the charges, except to say they have been in contact with the accused and his family.
“His dad was by his side through the whole process, throughout the process with us and the court arraignment,” said Staff Sgt. Ken O’Neil.
“He’s upset, as is the 15-year-old, he’s upset and now we’re getting ready for the court process,” he said.
Students who know the accused say it’s an unusual position for him to be in.
“He’s a pretty cool guy and never meant any harm to anyone. He was just a straight-up guy,” said Trsytan MacPhee, a Grade 12 student.
The teen is scheduled to be back in court on March 25.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Kyle Moore
