Accused in Brandon sword attack ordered to have mental health assessment

Messages of support are written on the sidewalk outside Neelin High School in Brandon, Man. on June 11, 2025. (Joseph Bernacki/CTV News Winnipeg)

The student accused in a Brandon high school sword attack has been ordered to undergo a mental health assessment.

A 16-year-old student at Neelin High School in Brandon was arrested and charged last week after he allegedly brought a sword to school and attacked a fellow student.

The victim, Chinonso Onuke, suffered multiple injuries, including wounds to his chest, abdomen and leg, which required emergency surgery.

The accused’s lawyer, Robert Harrison, confirmed to CTV News Wednesday that a provincial judge in Brandon ordered a forensic assessment for his client on Tuesday to learn if he is suffering from any psychological or mental health disorders.

The assessment is to be done in 30 days.

Meanwhile, Brandon police said it is still working with the Crown to determine if any additional charges will be laid.

“Significant material disclosure has been made to the Crown Attorney’s Office, inclusive of statements and digital evidence, a thorough analysis by the Crown’s Office of the investigative materials is underway,” Brandon Police Chief Tyler Bates said in an email to CTV News. “The collective assessment of the evidence disclosed to the Crown Attorney’s Office will dictate whether any additional charges are warranted. We continue to work in close collaboration with the Crown to assess all available evidence.”

Police confirmed the teenager is still in custody. He has been charged with attempted murder, uttering threats, possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose and disguise with intent.

The charges haven’t been tested in court.