On Jan. 13, 2025, at approximately 4:52 a.m. Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) received a report of a fire at a residence in the area of 118 Avenue and 122 Street. A 78-year-old female was located in the home and EMS treated and transported her to hospital with serious injuries. A 70-year-old male who was also in the home at the time escaped the fire without injuries. Both lived in the home and were family members.
The fire was subsequently determined to have been deliberately set, and the EPS began investigating the incident as an arson.
On Feb. 28, 2025, the female succumbed to her injuries in hospital. On May 6, 2025, the Edmonton Medical Examiner’s Office concluded that Susan Harlan, 78, died of complications of thermal injuries and smoke inhalation and the manner of death is homicide.
EPS Homicide Section continues to investigate and is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect captured on camera. Images are included below.
Suspect photos
Anyone who recognizes the individual pictured and/or recalls any suspicious activity in the area the morning of the fire, is asked to please contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.