Hamilton Man Found Not Criminally Responsible for Cousin’s Death

UPDATE: In a shocking ruling, a Hamilton man has been declared not criminally responsible for the stabbing death of his cousin, Mark Bistoyong, following a court decision announced just moments ago. Laureano Bistoyong, who unlawfully caused Mark’s death during a family barbecue on July 1, 2023, was found not criminally responsible due to a mental disorder, according to Superior Court Justice Andrew Goodman.

The courtroom erupted in chaos as family members reacted to the verdict, with some shouting at the judge and one individual reportedly throwing a chair. This dramatic scene highlights the deep emotional impact of this case on the family and the community.

Justice Goodman previously found Bistoyong guilty of second-degree murder in October 2024. He had stabbed his 16-year-old cousin in the chest with a chef’s knife while Mark was eating. Following this conviction, a sentencing hearing began late last year, where over 200 victim impact statements were prepared, marking one of the largest collections of such statements the judge had ever seen.

Despite the initial guilty verdict, the judge delayed sentencing until further mental health assessments could be conducted to determine Bistoyong’s criminal responsibility. Testimonies from psychiatrists regarding his mental state were heard on October 28 and 30, 2023, leading to today’s unexpected ruling.

The Ontario Review Board will now review the case to decide the future of Laureano Bistoyong, with a decision expected within 45 days. This next step is critical, as it will determine the support and treatment options available to him.

This developing story raises significant questions about mental health and legal responsibility, as well as the profound effects on victims’ families. The situation continues to evolve, and further updates will follow as the Ontario Review Board’s decision nears.

If you or someone you know is affected by these events, consider seeking mental health support through local resources. More to come.