Overview
The interrogation details the events leading to Thomas Chan's hallucinogenic episode where he fatally stabbed his father and critically injured his stepmother after consuming magic mushrooms. The interview explores his background, recollection of events, emotional state, and the aftermath.
Background of Thomas Chan
- Thomas Chan, 19, from Peterborough, Ontario, had no prior history of violence.
- He was a first-year college student on Christmas break in 2015.
- Described as a good student and athlete with a supportive family.
- Parents divorced when he was young; maintained relationships with both.
- Experienced depression and anxiety, with a past concussion impacting his mental health.
Events Leading to the Incident
- On December 28, 2015, Chan and friends consumed magic mushrooms at his mother’s house.
- Initially felt good, then began experiencing a “bad trip” involving severe paranoia and hallucinations.
- Chan described a "God complex," seeing close friends and family as sinister, with devilish features.
- Believed he was in danger and sought safety at his father’s house.
The Incident
- Broke into his father’s house through a sealed window due to fear.
- Hallucinated his father and stepmother as threats, perceiving black eyes, dark hair, and incomprehensible speech.
- Grabbed a knife, experiencing memory fragments and blackout moments during the attacks.
- Chan repeatedly stated he felt as if he needed to defend himself from perceived attackers.
Post-Incident Reflections and Interview
- Expressed deep remorse, stating he would never have intentionally hurt his family if sober.
- Admitted the actions were solely influenced by the hallucinogenic state and drug-induced paranoia.
- Acknowledged gaps in memory, recalling mostly distorted faces and overwhelming fear.
- Denied any intent to kill, emphasizing he sought comfort at his father’s house.
Legal Outcome
- Initially charged with second-degree murder and attempted murder.
- Sentenced in March 2019 to five years for manslaughter and attempted manslaughter.
- Charges later reduced and subsequently dropped; Chan is free as of today.
Decisions
- Disclosure of drug use and mental state during the interrogation.
- Expression of remorse and intent to tell the truth regarding the events.
Key Dates / Timeline
- December 28, 2015: Incident occurred.
- March 2019: Initial sentencing.
- Later: Sentence reduced, charges dropped, release.