On Oct. 19, 2025, at approximately 11:30 p.m., it was reported to police that three individuals were seen on the property of St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Elementary/Junior High School, in the area of 135 Avenue and 37 Street. Police observed one individual with a gas can before fires were set on the sidewalk, in a dumpster and on various parts of the school’s field. No injuries were reported, and it is estimated that these fires caused approximately $1,000 in damage.
On Oct. 20, 2025, at approximately 4:16 a.m., police were made aware of three individuals who were seen on the property of St. Clare Catholic Church, on 118 Avenue and 63 Street. It was reported that rocks and cement blocks were thrown at the church’s windows. Additionally, spray-painted satanic imagery and profanity were observed on the building. It is estimated that these incidents caused over $170,000 of damage.
Then, on Oct. 22, 2025, at approximately 12:57 a.m., it was reported that three individuals threw several rocks at St. Clare Church, causing approximately $20,000 in damage.
Following an investigation, in January 2026, police arrested two 15-year-old males in relation to all three incidents. Additionally, a 16-year-old male suspect was arrested and charged in relation to the fire at the school and for offences that occurred at the first incident at the church. Collectively, the three males face charges including arson - damage to property, mischief to religious property and mischief over $5,000.
A 12-year-old male suspect was also arrested and charged with mischief over $5,000 in relation to the second incident at the church.
The EPS takes hate-motivated incidents and crimes very seriously. These events hurt not only the victims, but the vicarious trauma has an impact on entire communities. Hate incidents can now be reported online. Hate crimes should be reported to police at 911 if it’s an emergency, or 780-423-4567 if it is not an emergency.