5 Youths Charged With Assault Following Attack on 13-Year-Old Girl in Kelowna

Five youths have been charged with assault in connection to an alleged targeted attack on a 13-year-old girl in Kelowna, B.C., that was captured on video and widely circulated online.

The alleged incident occurred on the evening of September 27 at Boyce-Gyro Beach Park. The video, reportedly filmed during the assault, shows a crowd of about 30 youths witnessing the attack, according to RCMP.

The five accused, whose identities are protected under a publication ban due to their ages, appeared in Kelowna court on Wednesday as the charges were read. Each faces one count of assault.

Victim Leaves Community

The father of the 13-year-old victim, whose identity is also protected, attended the court proceedings and said his daughter has since moved out of the community.

Speaking to reporters, he described the attack as part of a broader issue of youth violence in Kelowna, saying he had heard from other parents whose children have also been victims of similar incidents.

Police and Legal Action

The five accused were arrested shortly after the alleged attack and released under what police described as "strict conditions."

RCMP have not disclosed specific details about the conditions or the nature of the alleged assault.

The charged youths are scheduled to appear in court again in January.

Broader Concerns

The attack has raised concerns about youth violence in Kelowna, particularly with the sharing of such incidents on social media platforms. Local authorities and parents are urging more robust measures to address the issue and prevent future occurrences.

The case continues to unfold, with community members closely watching its progress.