Canadian Actor Ryan Grantham Sentenced for Mother’s Murder

Canadian actor Ryan Grantham has been sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to the shocking murder of his mother, Barbara Waite. The 24-year-old, known for his role as Jeffery Augustine in the television series *Riverdale*, received his sentence at the British Columbia Supreme Court in Vancouver. He pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, having initially faced a charge of first-degree murder.

The tragic incident occurred on April 1, 2020, when Grantham shot his mother in the back of the head while she played the piano in their home in Squamish, a town north of Vancouver. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Grantham had also plotted to kill Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, leading to further shock regarding his mental state.

Grantham, who gained recognition for his role in the 2010 film *Diary of a Wimpy Kid*, had been facing significant personal struggles. The court heard that he had become increasingly depressed and was using marijuana. Despite enrolling at Simon Fraser University, he had stopped attending classes, contributing to his worsening mental health.

On the day of the murder, Grantham’s sister, Lisa, grew concerned after failing to reach their mother. Upon arriving at the family home, she discovered Barbara’s lifeless body next to the piano she cherished. Grantham later surrendered to police, admitting, “I killed my mother,” and revealing the horrifying details of the crime.

Court documents indicated that Grantham had prepared for a violent act, loading his car with weapons, ammunition, and even Molotov cocktails, along with a map to Trudeau’s residence. In a disturbing video he recorded shortly after the murder, he expressed remorse, stating, “I shot her in the back of the head. In the moments after, she would have known it was me.”

As Grantham detailed his actions, he admitted to having rehearsed the murder and reflected on his intentions to carry out further violent acts. He had considered attacking locations such as Vancouver’s Lions Gate Bridge and his university. In a diary entry before the incident, he expressed deep regret, writing, “I’m so sorry Mum, I’m so sorry Lisa – I hate myself.”

During the trial, Grantham’s lawyers argued that he had been suffering from severe anxiety and depression, which contributed to his actions. The prosecution countered that he had numerous opportunities to reconsider, highlighting his experience with firearms and the premeditated nature of the crime. The court emphasized that Grantham’s actions represented a profound breach of trust.

Barbara Waite, described by family members as compassionate and loving, had been diagnosed with cancer shortly before her death. Lisa delivered a heart-wrenching victim impact statement, stating, “How can I trust anybody when my only sibling chose to execute my mum when her back was turned?” She lamented the brutal nature of the act, emphasizing that Barbara had no chance to defend herself.

The judge characterized the case as tragic and life-altering for all involved. She noted that since his incarceration, Grantham had been seeking psychiatric help, and reports indicated improvements in his behavior while in custody.

As the legal proceedings concluded, the case has raised broader discussions about mental health, violence, and the impacts of untreated psychological issues. Grantham’s actions, rooted in a complex interplay of personal struggles, have left an indelible mark on his family and the community.