Media Releases

Police arrest male following central Edmonton crime spree

01 Sep 2026 21:00:00 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has charged a 19-year-old man in connection with a series of vandalism incidents that caused significant property damage at multiple central Edmonton locations.

Between Aug. 19 and Aug 25, 2026, police were made aware of multiple incidents involving damaged glass panels and windows at several locations throughout central Edmonton, including the MacEwan LRT Station, Central LRT Station, ATB Place and the Edmonton Funicular. Total damages are estimated at approximately $100,000.

On Aug. 26, 2026, Downtown Branch officers located and arrested Chavez Adam Phillip Coyote, 19, with assistance from Edmonton Transit Peace Officers. He has since been charged with seven counts of mischief over $5,000. Police were able to confirm the suspect's identity and involvement through CCTV footage and other investigative efforts.

“This investigation highlights the value of strong partnerships and coordinated enforcement,” says A/Inspector Shelley Fisher with the EPS’ Downtown Branch. “Working alongside Transit Peace Officers, our officers were able to identify and arrest a suspect known to police who is responsible for a series of costly acts of vandalism across central Edmonton.”

Chavez Coyote is next scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 3, 2026.

Police seek assistance locating missing woman

01 Sep 2026 18:44:00 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing woman.

Candace Mineault, who is also known as Candy, is 38-years-old and was last seen on August 11, 2026, in the area of Fort Road and Yellowhead Trail. She has not been seen or heard from since.

Candace is approximately 5’4”, has a slim build, short blonde hair and script-style lettering tattooed on her right wrist. She’s also known to frequent Calgary and the Buffalo Lakes area.

Candance/Candy Mineault, 38

Candace’s disappearance is considered out of character, and as such, family and police are concerned for her well-being.

Secure your vehicle; Thefts from auto on the rise across the city

31 Aug 2026 17:15:00 UT

Lock it. Hide it. Protect it. Police are reminding Edmontonians that simple prevention can be the most effective way to prevent theft from vehicles.

Theft from vehicles remains a persistent issue across Edmonton. In its 2025 year-end crime analysis, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) reported that property crime increased by 10.1%, driven in part by increases in theft from vehicles, with theft under $5,000 from motor vehicles increasing by 17% citywide.

West and Downtown Branches have recently seen large increases in reported vehicle break-ins this past month. Approximately 126 vehicle break-ins were reported in West Branch and 161 in Downtown Branch in the past 30 days, raising concern from police.

In many cases, wallets, identification and other personal property were stolen, with some victims later experiencing fraudulent use of their stolen documents and financial cards.

As summer comes to an end and more people return to regular routines, police are encouraging residents, commuters, office workers, post-secondary students and those living or visiting high traffic areas of the city to be vigilant about securing their vehicles and personal belongings. Increased daily activity in and around campuses, workplaces, residential buildings and commercial areas creates more opportunities for thieves targeting unattended vehicles.

Police recommend the following crime prevention measures:

Lock vehicle doors and ensure windows are fully closed.
Remove valuables and personal items from plain view.
Never leave wallets, purses, identification, bank cards, electronics or backpacks in unattended vehicles.
Park in well-lit, visible locations whenever possible.
Install anti-theft screws to secure your license plate to your vehicle.
Theft of vehicle license plates is common. The EPS offers free anti-theft bolts to secure license plates. These are available at any police station.
Report suspicious activity to police promptly.

"Many vehicle break-ins are crimes of opportunity. Taking a few moments to secure your vehicle and remove valuables can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim," says Staff Sgt. Sean Parker from the EPS’ West Branch.

Police also remind residents that stolen identification and financial cards may be used to commit fraud. Anyone who believes these items have been stolen should contact their financial institution immediately, report the theft to police and monitor their accounts for suspicious activity.

The EPS continues targeted enforcement and patrol efforts while encouraging residents to play an active role in preventing theft and reducing opportunities for crime.

Man charged in arson spree

28 Aug 2026 19:26:00 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) Arson Unit has laid multiple charges following an investigation into a series of arsons in Edmonton’s Parkdale neighbourhood.

On Aug. 19, 2026, between the hours of 9 and 10 p.m., the EPS learned about fires that were set at an apartment building in the area of 83 Street and 117 Avenue and at two houses in the area of 81 Street and 115 Avenue. While no injuries were reported, several of the incidents posed significant risk to nearby occupied homes, resulting in minor property damage to fencing and a tree close to the primary sites.

Police undertook a coordinated investigation that involved the review of CCTV evidence that identified a male suspect. With this footage, officers were able to identify and arrest the male suspect in the area of 116 Avenue and Fort Road on the same evening.

On Aug. 20, 2026, 25-year-old Cody Perrott McCarthy was charged with five criminal offences, including arson with disregard for human life and arson causing property damage (x4).

“When a fire is intentionally set, the potential for harm can extend well beyond the property involved,” says Acting Inspector Eric Stewart of the EPS Investigations Branch. “I want to recognize the efforts of our investigators, patrol officers, and Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, whose teamwork and dedication were instrumental in advancing this investigation and identifying the person responsible.”

As of May 2026, the EPS has investigated approximately 146 suspicious fires.

Police seeking witnesses following southeast Edmonton assault

27 Aug 2026 16:20:00 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is seeking witnesses following an assault at a southeast Edmonton store.

On Aug. 6, 2026, at around 8 p.m. Southeast Division officers were called regarding an assault at a Walmart in the area of Tamarack Way and 17 Street. It was reported to police that a male complainant was injured following a physical interaction that occurred inside the store between a male complainant and two suspects, a male and a female. EMS also responded and treated the complainant on scene for non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators are aware that this incident was witnessed and filmed by several shoppers who left the store before police arrival and are asking them to come forward as soon as possible.

Anyone with information or video of this incident is encouraged to call 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.

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

25 Aug 2026 21:41:40 UT

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

On Thursday, July 30, 2026, Marklester Cruz, 41, was arrested and charged with sexual assault of a minor and sexual interference. These charges remain before the courts.

Marklester Cruz, 41

Cruz was released on Friday, August 21, 2026, on several court-imposed conditions. These conditions prohibit him from possessing any weapons, including firearms, ammunition, explosives, knives, or other items that could be used to cause injury or intimidate others.

Cruz is also prohibited from attending parks, swimming areas, schools, daycare centres, community centres, or other locations where children under 16 are present or reasonably expected to be present. He may not work or volunteer in any position of trust or authority involving persons under 16 years of age and must not have contact with anyone under 16 unless a parent or guardian is present.

Investigators have learned that Cruz is known to host vulnerable youth from the community at his residence in northwest Edmonton. The EPS believes his interactions within the community may have brought him into contact with other young and/or vulnerable individuals who have not yet been identified.

Moreover, based on information obtained during the investigation, the EPS has reasonable grounds to believe Cruz may continue to pose a risk to vulnerable youth.

In the interest of public safety, and to ensure potential victims are aware of the investigation, police are releasing Cruz's identity and photograph. Anyone who may have had contact with Cruz, or who may have information regarding similar incidents, is encouraged to contact the Edmonton Police Service 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 through local sexual assault support services or through the EPS.

ASIRT investigating officer involved shooting in west Edmonton

25 Aug 2026 21:17:00 UT

At approximately 7:14 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 24, 2026, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) responded to a weapons complaint at a hotel near Stony Plain Road and 178 Street. It was reported that two males were inside a hotel room and that one of them was in possession of a firearm.

Upon arrival, police contained the area and attempted to establish communication. During those efforts, a male exited and re-entered the suite a number of times and advanced toward officers with a pair of scissors. Two officers then discharged their firearms.

Officers attempted life-saving measures; however, the 57-year-old male was pronounced deceased at the scene by EMS. No EPS officers or other emergency personnel were injured.

The EPS submitted a 43.2 notification to the CEO of the Police Review Commission, who has directed the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) to conduct an investigation into the incident.

As such, the EPS cannot provide any additional information at this time. All further media inquiries should be directed to ASIRT.

Police investigating second fatal motorcycle collision of 2026

24 Aug 2026 20:01:00 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is investigating a fatal collision that took place in Edmonton yesterday afternoon.

At approximately 2:46 p.m. on Aug. 23, 2026, police responded to a collision involving a motorcycle in the area of Calgary Trail at Anthony Henday Drive. It was reported that a 2026 Honda CBR650R motorcycle was travelling westbound on Anthony Henday and was attempting to exit on the Calgary Trail ramp when the driver lost control and was ejected from his bike.

EMS responded and treated and transported the 22-year-old motorcycle driver to hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The EPS Major Collision Investigations Section (MCIS) is continuing to investigate.

“It is incredibly unfortunate that the city’s first two motorcycle fatalities of 2026 have occurred just days apart,” says S/Sgt. Richard Windover of the Major Collision Investigations Section. “Our thoughts are with the families, friends and loved ones affected by these tragic losses. As summer comes to an end, we are urging all motorists to slow down.”

Speed is believed to be a factor in this collision.

Police investigating following early morning stabbing at Sikh Gurdwara

21 Aug 2026 21:00:00 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has arrested a 27-year-old man following a stabbing at the Nanaksar Sikh Gurdwara early this morning.

On Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, at 4:49 a.m. EPS received reports of a male walking in traffic on Highway 15 near Horsehill Rd. At approximately 5:05 a.m. police began receiving reports of a stabbing at the Nanaksar Sikh Gurdwara in the area of 14 Street and Horsehill Rd.

It was reported to police that a male entered the Gurdwara and attempted to access the prayer area when he was confronted by staff. The confrontation then escalated and two male patrons of the Gurdwara were stabbed. Witnesses intervened and detained the man until Northeast Branch patrol officers arrived at 5:10 a.m. and immediately took him into custody.

EMS also responded, treated and transported a 75-year-old male and a 51-year-old male to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The EPS Investigative Response Team (IRT) has since assumed the investigation and is working closely with the EPS Hate Crimes Unit to determine if this incident was hate motivated. Charges are pending against the 27-year-old man.

“We are thankful that this morning’s event did not result in more significant injuries or deaths but also recognize that the trauma experienced by the victims and their community cannot be understated,” says EPS Chief Warren Driechel. “This level of violence has no place in our city, and we want to ensure the Sikh community and all Edmontonians that we are taking this incident and their safety, seriously.”

Anyone who may have noticed the man on Highway 15 early this morning is encouraged to call 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.

Police investigating fatal collision

20 Aug 2026 21:39:00 UT

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is investigating a fatal collision that took place in Edmonton yesterday evening.

At approximately 8:28 p.m. on Aug. 19 2026, police responded to a collision involving a vehicle and a motorcycle in the area of 34 Street and 64 Avenue. It was reported that a 2017 Land Rover Range Rover was travelling southbound on 34 Street and was attempting to turn eastbound on to 64 Avenue when a motorcycle also travelling southbound on 34 Street struck the rear of the Range Rover.

EMS responded; however, the 21-year-old male motorcyclist succumbed to his injuries on scene. The Range Rover’s 44-year-old female driver and her two passengers remained on scene and did not report any injuries at the time.

The EPS Major Collision Investigations Section (MCIS) is now investigating.

Witnesses or motorists with dashcam footage related to this collision are asked to contact EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone.

Speed is believed to be a factor in this collision.