Murder trial begins for Bradford man accused of stabbing Good Samaritan 20 times

The trial of Brandon Aaron, accused of fatally stabbing a Good Samaritan 20 times, has begun in Barrie.

The trial of a Bradford, Ont. man accused of stabbing a Good Samaritan along Holland Street West over the Labour Day weekend in 2022 has begun.

Brandon Aaron, 23, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of David Goddard, 59, and assault causing bodily harm of his then-teenage girlfriend who suffered a broken forearm.

South Simcoe police said at the time of Goddard’s death, he came to the aid of a young woman in distress. Investigators called the him a Good Samaritan, saying Goddard died a hero. Loved ones revealed Goddard was battling health challenges but he “died like he lived,” selflessly helping others in their time of need.

In its opening address to the jury Tuesday morning, the Crown laid out its case against the accused murderer. The Crown told the court Aaron stabbed Goddard 20 times in the torso, back and head, adding Goddard was found on the ground by an officer on patrol.

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Crown Attorney Susan Safar told the jury Aaron and his girlfriend were walking along Holland Street on September 4, 2022, following a night out drinking when they got into a fight.

Aaron’s teenage girlfriend, whose identity is protected by a publication ban due to her age at the time of the incident, had lost her cell phone that night and was looking for the phone with a flashlight, the Crown explained. Goddard, the prosecution said, was in the area, heard yelling and screaming and came to the young woman’s aid. The Crown said Aaron, armed with a knife, became enraged, and killed Goddard, leaving him on the sidewalk.

The Crown’s first witness, the South Simcoe police officer who found Goddard face down bleeding on the ground, testified the man was lifeless. Despite efforts by first responders to save his life, Goddard died.

Hours later, police confirmed Aaron surrendered himself. He has been in jail since his arrest.

The Bradford man was found guilty in December of violating his court-imposed communication ban. Aaron was convicted of trying to speak to the young woman from jail. The Crown said it intends to call her as a witness.

The six-week trial continues Wednesday with further Crown witness testimony.