A loaded rifle, and ammunition were seized at an apartment in downtown Edmonton earlier this week.
On Monday, August 19, 2024, at approximately 4:15 a.m., Edmonton Police Service (EPS) Downtown Branch officers responded to a weapons complaint at an apartment building in the area of 104 Avenue and 95 Street.
It was reported to police that a male and female suspect snuck into the building and followed a man into an elevator. A firearm was produced, and the suspects attempted to rob him. He was followed by the two suspects to his apartment suite but was able to escape unharmed.
As officers were securing and clearing the apartment building, they encountered a male and female who matched the description that was provided to police. After seeing police, the two suspects fled on foot down a stairwell and attempted to exit the building where they were arrested. Following arrest, police located a backpack that the male suspect had dropped in the stairwell, which contained a loaded rifle, a loaded spare magazine and nearly 100 rounds of additional ammunition.
Weapon found in backpack
Ammunition found in backpack
Darcy Chykerda, 30, was charged with possession of firearm with defaced serial number, possession of a prohibited firearm contrary to order (x3), obstruction, possession of a weapon knowing possession unauthorized, robbery with a firearm, possession of restricted firearm with ammunition readily accessible, breach of release order (x2), possession of ID document, and carrying a concealed weapon.
At the time of arrest, Chykerda provided police with a fake name using a stolen drivers license. He was also previously wanted on several weapons-related warrants. His next court date is September 3, 2024.
Shayla Lewis, 31, was charged with robbery with a firearm and obstruction. Her next court date is September 19, 2024.
“Both suspects put an entire residential building in harm’s way, and we are grateful that we were able to intervene when we did,” says Cst. Kevin Amer with EPS’ Downtown Branch. “The amount of ammunition and the type of weapon seized is concerning, especially when one of the suspects already had several warrants for weapon-related offences.”