Media Releases

Police lay charges after homicide in central Edmonton

06 Aug 2026 22:08:29 UT

Homicide investigators have charged a 22-year-old male in relation to a homicide in central Edmonton.

On Thursday, August 6, 2026, the Edmonton Medical Examiner’s Office completed an autopsy and determined Sukhjit Randhawa’s, 48, manner of death is homicide. The cause of death is being withheld for investigative purposes.

Nicholas Butler-Chowace, 22, has been charged with second degree murder.

On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, just before 1 p.m., Downtown Branch patrol officers responded to the report of an injured male in the area of 112 Avenue and 82 Street. Upon arrival, they located a 48-year-old male suffering from serious injuries.

EMS responded, treated and transported the male to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The EPS Homicide Section took over the investigation.

Investigators are not seeking any additional suspects at this time.

Police charge man with sexual assault of a minor and seek additional complainants

06 Aug 2026 20:45:00 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has charged a man in the sexual assault of a young child and investigators believe there may be other victims who have yet to come forward.

On Wednesday, July 29, 2026, Simon Nicholas, 50, who is also known as Ambrose Nicholas, was charged with sexual assault, sexual interference, and two counts of breaching a court order. Officers also executed warrants from Athabasca RCMP for the sexual assault of another young child.

Simon Nicholas, 50

At the time of the Edmonton reports, Nicholas was subject to court-ordered conditions prohibiting contact with children under 16 and restricting access to locations frequented by children.

In both investigations, it is reported that Nicholas presented himself to a parent as someone who could be trusted to care for young children.

Based on the similarities in the reported incidents, investigators believe there may be additional victims or witnesses who have not yet come forward and are asking anyone with information to contact EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

Support is available for anyone affected by sexual violence though local sexual assault support services or through the EPS.

Police warn public about a rise in scams targeting seniors.

06 Aug 2026 18:02:18 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is warning the public about an increase in grandparent scams targeting seniors and their savings. In many cases, the suspects are impersonating police officers and exploiting victims' concerns for their loved ones.

In the past two month, police have received 21 reports of seniors being targeted by scammers in a similar fashion.

The common tactic involves the suspects posing as police officers claiming that a child or grandchild has been arrested and requires immediate bail money to be released from custody.

The scammers often create a sense of urgency, insisting that payment be made immediately in the form of cash, credit cards, gift cards, cryptocurrency, gold or jewellery. In some cases, a courier is sent directly to the victim’s home to collect payment or the “police officer” will meet the senior in person.

Once a victim provides payment, the fraudsters often continue to contact the victim and demand additional funds for purported legal fees, court costs, and other charges. Some victims have been targeted repeatedly, resulting in substantial financial losses.

"These criminals are manipulative, convincing, and highly skilled at creating panic. They deliberately prey on seniors by exploiting the fear and concern they have for their loved ones," says Staff Sgt. Mike Zaparyniuk of the EPS Financial Crimes Section. "We want people to understand that the police will never call and demand money, gold, gift cards, cryptocurrency, credit cards, or any other form of payment to secure someone's release from custody. If you receive a call like this, stop, hang up, and verify the information independently."

Spot the scam. Police will never:

Request cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency, gold, jewellery, or credit cards to secure someone’s release.
Send a courier to collect money, valuables or financial information.
Demand immediate payment over the phone.
Instruct individuals to keep a police matter secret from family and friends.

If you receive a call claiming that a loved one has been arrested and needs money:

Hang up immediately. Do not provide any personal or financial information.
Contact your family member directly using a phone number you know is legitimate or reach out to another family member or trusted person.
Never provide cash, valuables, banking information, or credit cards to someone you do not know.
Contact the EPS non-emergency line 780-423-4567 if you believe you are being targeted.

Investigators are also asking Edmontonians to talk openly with seniors they know about these scams.

"We want seniors to know that it's okay to be skeptical, even if someone claims to be a police officer. We won't be offended if you question the call or hang up to verify who you're speaking with," says Staff Sgt. Zaparyniuk. "If someone is demanding money, creating urgency, or telling you to keep a secret, those are major red flags. We also encourage family members to have conversations with their parents, grandparents, friends, and neighbours about these scams. A simple conversation can prevent someone from becoming a victim and losing their hard-earned savings."

Families are also encouraged to establish trusted methods of verification and discuss what to do if they receive an emergency call requesting money. Taking a moment to pause, verify, and speak with a trusted family member can help prevent fraud and protect vulnerable loved ones.

Anyone who believes they or someone they know has been targeted by a grandparent scam is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or by dialing #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.

Police investigating homicide in central Edmonton

06 Aug 2026 00:52:04 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is investigating a suspicious death that took place in central Edmonton.

On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at approximately 12:58 p.m., Downtown Branch patrol officers responded to the report of an injured male in the area of 112 Avenue and 82 Street. Upon arrival, they located a 48-year-old male suffering from serious injuries.

EMS responded, treated and transported the male to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The EPS Homicide Section has taken over the investigation.

An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday, August 6, 2026.

Man charged in 2024 homicide

31 Jul 2026 21:58:44 UT

A man has been charged in the June 2024 homicide of Dwight Bennett, whose death was investigated as criminal after new information came forward in May of 2025.

On Friday, July 31, 2026, Zachary Jerome-Legault, 40 was arrested and charged with first degree murder in relation to the death of Dwight Bennett, 39.

The cause of death was withheld at the time for investigative purposes, and is now being confirmed as a gunshot wound.

Anyone with any information about this homicide is asked to call police at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile device. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

Background

On Thursday, June 20, 2024, a 39-year-old male went into medical distress at a residence located at the Blue Quill Garden Apartments, located at 12025 – 25 Avenue. EMS responded and transported the male to hospital, where he passed away later that day. Because the initial call for service was deemed medical, there was no police involvement at the time.

It was believed the death was non-criminal in nature until police received new information in May of 2025. Homicide detectives then met with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to re-investigate the initial sudden death.

As a result, a second autopsy was performed on July 30, 2025, and Dwight Bennett’s death was ruled a homicide.

Youth Recruit Academy gives Edmonton students an inside look at policing

31 Jul 2026 15:00:00 UT

Thirty-seven high school students officially graduated today from the Edmonton Police Service’s July 2026 Youth Recruit Academy, capping off an intense week of learning, teamwork, physical challenges and hands-on policing scenarios.

The Youth Recruit Academy offers students in Grades 10, 11 and 12 a unique opportunity to gain insight into what it takes to become an EPS recruit constable. Throughout the week-long summer program, participants learned alongside EPS members, asked questions about careers in policing and connected with peers who share an interest in public safety and community service.

Running from July 27 to 31, the academy challenged students both physically and mentally as they explored the many roles that help keep Edmonton safe. Participants took part in police-structured lectures, team-building activities and scenario-based training with EPS units including Canine, Robbery, Air 1, Traffic and Forensics.

From fitness drills and classroom learning to leadership exercises and real-world policing demonstrations, the academy is designed to build confidence, resilience and an understanding of the dedication required of frontline officers.

“This program gives students a meaningful look at the responsibilities, challenges and rewards of a career in policing,” YRA coordinator, Acting Sergeant Tiffany Rose. “Each participant stepped up, worked hard and showed the teamwork, determination and leadership that are at the heart of public service.”

This year’s second summer class of 37 students completed five full days of training, gaining a small but meaningful look into the first year of life as a police recruit. The experience also encouraged students to think about the importance of physical fitness, leadership, accountability and service to community.

The Youth Recruit Academy is made possible through the generous support of the Edmonton Police Foundation, whose continued commitment helps create opportunities for youth to learn, grow and explore future pathways in policing.

Autopsy complete in Tuesday homicide

30 Jul 2026 20:21:30 UT

An autopsy has confirmed Tuesday’s death of a 39-year-old man was a homicide.

A Wednesday, July 29, 2026 autopsy determined that Hiwa Palani, 39, died of gunshot wounds, and his death was a homicide.

Homicide investigators are releasing photos of two suspect vehicles. A grey 2009 Mazda 3 was used during the homicide and then driven to 213 Street and 108 Avenue, where it was set on fire. The suspect then got into a 2007 red Ford Fusion and drove it to Ada Boulevard and 50 Street, where it was also set on fire before the suspect fled on foot into the river valley.

The Mazda fire was extinguished by witnesses in the area, and the Ford fire was extinguished by Edmonton Fire Rescue Services. Both vehicles were found to have front bumper body damage as shown in the photos below.

Grey 2009 Mazda 3 set on fire at 213 Street and 108 Avenue

Damage to Mazda’s driver’s side bumper

Damaged 2007 Ford Fusion abandoned at Ada Boulevard and 50 Street

Red 2007 Ford Fusion

Investigators are asking anyone with CCTV or dashcam video in the above noted areas between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to review their footage for evidence of these vehicles or the people associated to them, and call police at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile device. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

Edmonton Police Service releases 2025 crime data

29 Jul 2026 16:26:55 UT

On July 22, 2026, Statistics Canada and the Canadian Centre for Justice and Community Safety Statistics (CCJCSS) released its 2025 Police-Reported Crime Statistics. To provide a municipal context alongside these national trends, the EPS is now releasing its 2025 year-end crime analysis.

EPS data for 2025 shows a 3.2% increase in total crime rate, which measures the number of police-reported crimes per 100,000 people.

The statistics reflect a 6.5% decrease in the total crime severity index (CSI), which measures the volume and severity of crime using a nationally standardized weighting system. Violent CSI showed a 3.2% increase, while non-violent CSI decreased by 11%.

Of note, the property crime rate in Edmonton showed a large increase of 10.1%, driven by increases in shoplifting, mischief and theft from auto.

“In 2025, we saw our crime rate creeping up after steady decreases in recent years, along with notable increases in property crime,” says Police Operations Chief Devin Laforce. “In 2025, shoplifting under $5,000 increased by 30%, while mischief increased by 23%, and theft under $5000 from a motor vehicle showed a 17% increase.”

“In early 2026, we launched Safer Edmonton, a crime management approach that strategically deploys resources to specific areas where the data shows us an increased presence is needed. Based on community boundaries, crime data and mapping, the zones help identify emerging trends and guide targeted enforcement efforts.”

“As a result of these efforts, we are seeing decreases in violent and non-violent crime and disorder, and increases in proactive enforcement, including breaches and warrant executions, in the areas targeted. A monthlong early summer deployment in Northwest Branch resulted in a 18.7% decrease in violent crime and a 23.7% decrease in disorder events year to date.”

“We hear community concerns about disorder, public drug use and property crime in Edmonton’s busiest areas, and how that affects perceptions of safety,” adds Laforce. “We will continue to emphasize a data-driven, proactive policing approach, along with strong government and community partnerships that help connect people to the right services as we work together to build a safer Edmonton.”

The EPS is again presenting the annual crime statistics in the dashboard that was launched last year. This ensures members of the media and public have easy access to the data and trends surrounding Edmonton’s crime rate, top violations as well as their comparisons to provincial and national figures.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2025 YEAR-END CRIME ANALYSIS

Edmonton’s Crime Severity Index (CSI) decreased by 6.5% between 2024 and 2025

Edmonton’s violent CSI increased by 3.2% between 2024 and 2025

Edmonton’s non-violent crime severity decreased by 11% between 2024 and 2025

Edmonton’s total crime rate increased by 3.2% between 2024 and 2025

Edmonton’s violent crime rate decreased by 2.5% between 2024 and 2025

Edmonton’s property crime rate increased by 10.1% between 2024 and 2025

Citywide disorder calls for service increased by 3.4% between 2024 and 2025

Edmonton’s overall calls for service increased by 4.3% between 2024 and 2025, while officer generated calls for service increased by 19.9% over the same period.

Police investigating suspicious death

28 Jul 2026 22:50:32 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is investigating a suspicious death that took place in west Edmonton.

On Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at approximately 11:35 a.m., West Branch patrol officers responded to the report of a shooting at a business in the area of 112 Avenue and 149 Street. Upon arrival, they located a 39-year-old male suffering from serious injuries.

EMS responded, treated and transported the male to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. EPS Homicide Section has taken over the investigation. An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

A male was seen fleeing the area on foot around the time of the shooting, and investigators are seeking witnesses and dashcam footage from anyone who was in the area between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. today.

Anyone with dash cameras that were active during this time are asked to review their footage and contact police if they see anything suspicious by calling 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile device. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

Charges laid in homicide of 27-year-old woman

28 Jul 2026 16:57:04 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has laid charges after a weekend homicide in the city's west end.

On Sunday, July 26, 2026, at approximately 9:40 p.m., West Division officers responded to a report of an altercation outside of a residence in the Hamptons neighbourhood.

When officers arrived, they found a 27-year-old female with life-threatening injuries. She was treated and transported to hospital by EMS where she sadly passed away. A 33-year-old woman was arrested on scene.

The EPS Homicide Section assumed the investigation. On Monday, July 27, 2026, the Edmonton Medical Examiner’s Office completed an autopsy and determined Zubaria Khan’s cause of death was multiple stab wounds and the manner of death was homicide.

Fahimah Rahimi, 33, has been charged with second degree murder. The two women were known to each other, and investigators are not seeking any additional suspects at this time.