(ASHLEY LEGASSIC / iNFOnews.ca)

KAMLOOPS - Friends of Jessie Simspon, the Savona teenager in a coma after being assaulted with a baseball bat, took to the Kamloops Courthouse and the streets surrounding it today, June 27, ahead of an appearance by the accused in provincial court.

Kristopher Teichrieb, 39, is charged with attempted murder after allegedly striking Simpson over the head with a baseball bat multiple times.

Supporters gathered with signs reading "NO BAIL" and "Justice 4 Jessie" outside of the courthouse entrance. They later took to the streets where they chanted "Justice for Jessie" while people honked in support.

Simpson has been pronounced brain dead, but showed some movement in his arms last week. It's not known what that means in terms of motor functions, mental capacity, or recovery, tho some friends and family took it as a hopeful sign.

Friends say Simpson was attending a graduation party in Kamloops the night of June 18. Early in the morning on June 19, sources say he attempted to walk to his friend's house and was looking for an address when he stumbled onto Teichrieb's Clifford Avenue driveway in Brocklehurst.

Teichrieb's mother says her son has had several break-ins and attempted break-ins at his home recently.

Teichrieb allegedly came out with a baseball bat, exchanged words with Simpson, and chased him onto Holt Street.

Sources say Simpson three open skull fractures.

In court today, Teichrieb appeared briefly by video for an appearance. His bail hearing has been pushed over to next Monday, July 4. If Simpson dies, there is a chance Teichrieb's attempted murder charge could be escalated to murder.

Simpson's supporters plan on being back at the court house for Teichrieb's hearing next week.

For more of our coverage on this case, go here.

(ASHLEY LEGASSIC / iNFOnews.ca)

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