Jesse Deschamps, who was shot and killed outside the Village Square Mall in Penetanguishene last Thursday, will be "forever cherished."
The 30-year-old Penetanguishene man was engaged to be married. He was providing for four children. He also loved baseball and other sports.
A GoFundMe account was set up in his name Friday by Jen Hallett to help the family.
"The family received devastating news on the evening of July 27 that Jessie passed away from a result of homicide," reads the GoFundMe account.
"Jesse was the main source of income supporting his soon-to-be wife and young kids ages 12, 7, 5, and 2. Jesse will be greatly missed, forever cherished and always remembered," wrote Hallett in the GoFundMe account.
"As the family is forced to accept the violent acts of an unhinged mind, we ask for your support in any amount. All donations will contribute to a funeral fund as well as helping the family pay rent cost/hydro and food bills while adjusting to their new reality. We thank you for your generous help, helping this family move forward."
According to Deschamps' public Facebook page, he was an avid baseball player. He also enjoyed snowmobiling, dirt biking and spending time with his children.
On its Facebook Page, the Town of Penetanguishene said it is "deeply saddened by the tragic event" that occurred July 27, 2023 at the Village Square Mall.
"Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim. We are keeping them in our thoughts during this difficult time," noted the social media post.
"We would like to thank the first responders for their quick and courageous response to the incident," it stated.
The investigation is ongoing, and "our community is cooperating fully with the Southern Georgian Bay OPP. We trust that they will do everything possible to bring those responsible to justice and share further details with the public when appropriate," noted the post.
“On behalf of council, I extend our deepest sympathies to everyone affected by this senseless act of violence,” says Mayor Doug Rawson on the Facebook post. “I urge anyone with information to contact our local OPP department, or anonymous Crime Stoppers line.”
Southern Georgian Bay OPP are continuing the investigation into the murder of Deschamps. Const. Dave Hobson said he could not answer questions but told MidlandToday an update on the case would be made public later today.
No arrests have yet been made.
Southern Georgian Bay OPP's major crime unit is being assisted by the OPP criminal investigation branch, with assistance of the OPP forensic identification services and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario and the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service.
Anyone who has any information or may have dash-cam or surveillance video is asked to contact the Southern Georgian Bay OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or opp.southern.georgian.bay@opp.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
