Verdict expected in Edmonton dog attack death trial

A judge is expected to deliver a verdict Friday in the criminal negligence trial of an Edmonton woman charged in the 2024 death of an 11-year-old boy killed by two dogs.

Crystal MacDonald has pleaded not guilty to criminal negligence causing death in connection with the fatal attack on Kache Grist at her Edmonton home in April 2024.

Court heard MacDonald and the boy’s father, Wesley Grist, were roommates at the time. Kache, who lived in British Columbia, was visiting Edmonton during spring break when the attack occurred.

During testimony, MacDonald said she repeatedly warned Wesley Grist not to leave the child alone with the two Cane Corsos. She also testified she planned to enrol the dogs in behavioural training.

According to evidence presented in court, the dogs had previously injured two people and killed a cat and a Pomeranian before the fatal attack on Kache.

The case has drawn attention to questions around dangerous dog ownership and criminal liability when prior incidents involving animals have been documented. The court’s decision is expected to clarify whether prosecutors proved MacDonald’s actions met the threshold for criminal negligence.