In a media conference this afternoon, Acting Chief David Korol addressed Edmonton's homicide rate:
I regret to inform you that just after 3 am this morning, Edmonton Police Service members responded to a man with fatal injuries, laying in an alley near 86 street and 106 A avenue. Homicide detectives are currently investigating, and police are going door to door asking the public for any information that could lead to an arrest.
This is Edmonton’s most recent homicide….way too many for a city of this size. I want to update you on the work we are doing to solve these homicides and give some suggestions to those who might be at risk of becoming involved in one.
First off, there are very few commonalities between the homicides we have investigated thus far. We do know that many of the homicides are what we refer to as “known on known” – not stranger attacks, but disputes between people who know each other. The other thing we see is that these disputes are often fuelled by alcohol or drugs, and involve anger and confrontational situations.
We have solved, or have charges pending in many of these cases. We will be announcing additional charges on a recent homicide sometime next week.
If you commit a homicide in Edmonton, chances are very good that you will be caught.
In solving these cases, detectives rely on the public and witnesses to come forward with information. We encourage citizens to continue to call Police or CrimeStoppers with any information they have, about a homicide…….. or any other crime.
To conclude, I offer you these thoughts. If you are an Edmontonian who goes about your everyday business in a normal fashion, you are very safe. It is highly unlikely that you will become involved in a homicide.
However, those who choose to lead a high risk lifestyle….by purchasing, selling or consuming drugs…or associating with those involved in criminal activity… you are putting yourself at risk. Get the help you need…today…to leave your high risk lifestyle behind. Violence is not the answer to solve your problems.
Further….if you suffer from mental health issues, or are affected by domestic violence…there are resources in the community to assist you. Seek the help you need. If you don’t know where to turn, ask the Police for help.
In the midst of this homicide increase, you can take some comfort in knowing that Edmonton’s rates of both violent crime and property crime have decreased from last year. What we are seeing with this rash of homicides so far in 2011 is contrary to what the trend has been since 2005.
I want to assure you that Edmonton is a safe city to live in. You should not fear to go about your daily lives, but rather enjoy all the things this city has to offer. I also want you to know that our investigators are working tirelessly to solve each and every homicide case and we will continue to give them the resources and support.
Thank you for your time.
A/Chief David Korol