Man accused of killing Toronto cop appears in court by video from hospital bed

Nicholas Bennett, 19, appeared in court via video link from his hospital bed to face charges including first-degree murder. He is accused of fatally shooting Toronto police Const. Marc Pinizzotto last Thursday during a raid connected to several shootings, including shots fired at the U.S. consulate earlier this year.

During the court appearance, a justice of the peace twice asked Bennett, who was lying in his hospital bed at St. Michael’s Hospital, to give a thumbs up if he could hear and understand the proceedings. He complied after the second request. Police allege Bennett shot Const. Pinizzotto as the officer participated in the raid. Bennett himself was shot by police and has been in hospital since the incident. A prosecutor informed the court that Bennett regained consciousness earlier on Wednesday.

Bennett is scheduled to return to court via video on Monday. The court heard that he can apply for bail in Superior Court at a later date. The investigation has also led to charges against two other youths in connection with the consulate shooting. Zara Jabbi, 19, faces charges including attacking the premises of internationally protected persons and firearm offenses. Sheldon Tracy-Stewart, 18, was previously arrested and charged with multiple offenses related to the consulate shooting.

A funeral for Const. Pinizzotto is planned for next week. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in Toronto, particularly in relation to violent crime and the use of firearms.