Convicted Murderer Ryan Andrews Attempts Escape in Downtown Toronto After Court Wagon Breakdown

Ryan Andrews, Convicted Murderer, Attempts Escape After Court Wagon Breakdown in Toronto

On May 6, Ryan Andrews, who was found guilty of second-degree murder in the death of Gabriel Del Castillo Mullally, attempted to escape custody in downtown Toronto. The escape attempt occurred after the court wagon transporting him back to the Toronto South Detention Centre experienced a mechanical failure.

The Conviction and Escape Attempt

Andrews was convicted for the murder of 25-year-old Gabriel Del Castillo Mullally, which occurred over two years prior. The jury reached its decision after just over a day of deliberations. The incident took place near York Street and Lake Shore Boulevard, in front of the Ice Tower Condos, after the court wagon broke down.

Details of the Escape

Assistant Crown attorney Karolina Visic argued at a sentencing hearing that Andrews's escape attempt “exemplifies his lack of taking accountability for the crime.” After being convicted at approximately 10 p.m., Andrews was being transported back to the Toronto South Detention Centre. When the initial wagon broke down, officers arranged for a second one. As officers were escorting Andrews to the replacement wagon at 11:04 p.m., he broke free and fled north on York Street. He had managed to remove one of his handcuffs and concealed his hands with his jacket.

The Apprehension

Two police constables from 52 Division, Constable Valentine and Constable Prodhan, were dispatched to the scene. They, along with three court officers, pursued Andrews on foot. Constable Valentine, with the assistance of Constable Prodhan, successfully apprehended Andrews at the corner of York and Bremner. Andrews was then transported to the Toronto South Detention Centre.

Injuries and Sentencing Arguments

During the apprehension, Constable Valentine sustained minor injuries, including scrapes, while Constable Prodhan suffered a large scrape to his knee. Andrews also sustained some injuries during the takedown and from removing his handcuff. Visic argued that Andrews's parole ineligibility period should be set at 15 years, emphasizing his character and past actions, including fleeing the scene after deliberately running down Del Castillo Mullally outside the Rusty Nail pub on February 5, 2023.

Defense's Perspective and Sentencing

Defense lawyer Sherif Foda requested a parole ineligibility period of 10 years, arguing that the stress Andrews was under at the time of the escape should be considered. Andrews apologized to Del Castillo Mullally’s family during an elocution to the court. Ultimately, Superior Court Justice Susanne Boucher sentenced Andrews to life in prison with a parole ineligibility period of 11 years.

Key Events Timeline