THUNDER BAY— A man who pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the shooting death of Michael Park at a Brodie Street apartment in 2022 will spend just over four more years in prison.
“I know sorry does not help,” said Javon Myers (27) of Toronto after being sentenced to a total of eight years, minus credit for time served, for killing Park.
Justice Elaine Burton handed down the sentence Friday afternoon at the Thunder Bay Courthouse.
“Our worst nightmares became reality,” read the victim impact statement from Park's family, heard by the court.
Burton read out a summary of the events that day in Oct. 2022.
Myers was at his apartment in the Brodie Street area when Park entered and sprayed bear spray. Myers then exited the apartment with a handgun in search of Park.
Myers then located an additional person in the Brodie Street area who pointed out where Park was located between buildings in the Brodie street area.
Myers then fired several rounds in Park’s direction and fled the scene.
In sentencing, Burton gave Myers credit for time in custody, leaving 4.14 years of incarceration remaining of his eight year sentence.
In a joint decision, the crown and the defence both agreed to the sentence.
Burton said aggravating factors included the pursuit of Michael Park and possession of a gun.
Burton said some of the factors working in Myers' favour were that he pleaded guilty before trial, saving government resources and sparing the Park family additional stress.
Myers was first arrested and charged with first-degree murder in January 2023 and pleaded guilty to manslaughter after a preliminary hearing.
Myers also attended counselling sessions for substance abuse, ceased communications with his former social circle and has a healthy relationship with his mother.
Burton also said there is time for Myers to be rehabilitated while in the correctional centre.
“He is 27 years old and a young man himself,” Burton said.
Burton additionally read a statement from Park’s family,
“There’s no moving on from this, only survival,” read the statement heard by the court.
In addition to the jail sentence, Myers also received a lifetime weapon and firearm ban, and he must submit a DNA sample for records, the court heard.
The court additionally waived a $200 victim surcharge.
Myers was first arrested and charged with first-degree murder in January 2023 in connection with Park’s death in October 2022.
“I sincerely hope this has been a turning point for you," said Burton.
