Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Police lay charges in hit-and-run collision

The Edmonton Police Service has laid charges in a hit-and-run collision that took place earlier this month in west Edmonton.

On Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2019, police responded to the report of a hit-and-run collision in the area of 133 Street and Beuna Vista Road. It was reported to police that two vehicles, a BMW sedan and a BMW SUV, were driving erratically and stunting in the parking lot of the city zoo when the sedan struck a male staff member who was standing on a service road in the parking lot. Both vehicles then reportedly fled the scene.

EMS responded, treated and transported the 26-year-old male staff member to hospital with serious non-life-threatening injuries. He has since been released.

Following a thorough investigation, officers identified and charged the 16-year-old male driver of the sedan with dangerous driving causing bodily harm and hit-and-run causing bodily harm. Investigators also charged another 17-year-old male for being party to the offence with hit-and-run causing bodily harm and attempting to obstruct justice.

Both youths were issued appearance notices and are expected in court in the new year.



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Friday, December 27, 2019

Christmas Day suspicious death deemed a homicide

The Edmonton Medical Examiner has completed the autopsy on the man who was killed on Christmas Day. 

At approximately 7:20 a.m. on Dec. 25, 2019 it was reported that shots were fired in the area of 117 Street and 107 Avenue. A 28-year-old male victim was found outside the apartment building. 

EMS responded to the scene and the victim was treated by paramedics but passed away shortly after. Persons were observed leaving the scene in vehicles.

It has been determined that Abdinasir Abdullahi Shire died from gunshot wounds and his death has been deemed a homicide.

Homicide Detectives continue to investigate and want to speak with anyone who was present at the time of the incident.

Anyone with any information about the shooting or what led up to the incident is asked to 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



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Community celebrates 11th Annual McCauley Cup

Downtown Division police officers will be lacing up their skates tomorrow afternoon for a friendly game of hockey marking the 11th Annual McCauley Cup. “We look forward to the McCauley Cup every year,” says Const. David McFarland with Downtown Division and organizer of the McCauley Cup. “The event continues to grow and has become a special milestone in the community that the kids and police officers always get a little competitive and excited about.”

The McCauley Cup was born 11 years ago by a Downtown Beat officer who wanted to bridge the gap between police and the community. Since then, the game has grown in popularity and no matter the weather, youth from the neighbourhood are always eager to showcase their skills to their opponent police officers and spectators.

Opening remarks will commence at 12:50 p.m. and the puck drops at 1 p.m. The event takes place at the McCauley outdoor skating rink (10750 96 Street). All media are invited and welcome for photo/video opportunities.

Players and visitors will be able to enjoy a bonfire, hot drinks and some light refreshments. All spectators are encouraged to bring a non-perishable donation to the Edmonton Food Bank.

The EPS would like to thank the gracious sponsors of this event: United Cycle, Sport Central, K.I.D.S., Elite Sport Awards, and the Oilers Alumni.

The EPS would also like to thank the Edmonton Police Foundation and the McCauley Community League for their continued support.

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Wednesday, December 25, 2019

Homicide Section investigating officer involved shooting

Homicide Section is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2019. 

Patrol members attempted to stop a vehicle in the area of 35 Street and 147A Avenue just before 12:30 a.m. today. During the course of these events police members exited their vehicle and one of the officers discharged his service weapon toward the vehicle.

Police continue to search for the occupants of the vehicle. It’s unknown at this time if the driver of the vehicle and any of its occupants were injured. The patrol members were unharmed.

The EPS contacted the Director of Law Enforcement who directed that the investigation remain with EPS at this time. ASIRT has also been notified.

Anyone with any information about the whereabouts or identity of the vehicle’s occupants is asked to 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



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Homicide detectives investigating suspicious death

The Edmonton Police Service Homicide Section is investigating a suspicious death that occurred in the morning of Dec. 25, 2019.

At approximately 7:20 a.m. it was reported that shots were fired in the area of 117 Street and 107 Avenue. A male victim was found outside the apartment building.  

 

EMS responded to the scene and the victim was treated by paramedics but passed away shortly after.

Persons were observed leaving the scene in vehicles. Detectives want to speak with anyone who was present at the time of the incident.

 

Anyone with any information about the shooting or what led up to the incident is asked to 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.

 



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Monday, December 23, 2019

Police arrest suspect in connection to B&Es at seniors’ residences

The Edmonton Police Service has arrested and charged a 38-year-old male in connection with a recent rash of break-and-enters at downtown area seniors’ residences.

On Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, at approximately 7:30 p.m., EPS officers observed Raed Ahmad El Harati, 38, a suspect wanted in connection with the recent prolific series, in a downtown convenience store.

El Harati was subsequently taken into custody and charged with break and enter with intent (x6) and use a stolen credit card (x2). Additional charges may be pending.

Background:
It was reported to police that El Harati was posing as a maintenance worker or security guard to gain access to suites, while residents were at home. El Harati would convince residents that he was there to undertake some sort of maintenance work, or to check on things. It is alleged that he would then distract residents and proceed to steal their valuables in the room.




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Friday, December 20, 2019

Police issue warrants for grinch preying on seniors this holiday season

The Edmonton Police Service has issued multiple warrants for the arrest of a grinch, who has broken into several seniors’ assisted-living residences in Downtown Division this holiday season.[No text in field]

Investigators are looking for the public’s assistance in locating Raed Ahmad El Harati, 38, of Edmonton, a suspect wanted in connection with a recent rash of break-ins at seniors’ residences.

Complainants have told police that the male is posing as a maintenance worker or security guard to gain access to suites while residents are at home. The suspect convinces residents that he’s there to do work or check on things. He then distracts residents and proceeds to steal their valuables in the room.

Harati (see photo below) is arrestable on the following charges:
-
Housebreaking and commit theft (x2)
- Housebreaking with intent
(x4)
- Use a stolen credit card (x2)

Anyone with information about Harati’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact 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

Background:
Downtown Division officers are alerting seniors in assisted living residences about a suspect who has broken into two facilities since Dec. 2, 2019 in Downtown Division. The suspect has committed five separate break-ins and has made several other attempts to gain access to facilities.

   

EPS issues warrants for the arrest of Raed Ahmad El Harati, 38, in connection to housebreaking and theft incidents at seniors' assisted-living residences in Downtown Division. 





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Thursday, December 19, 2019

Police continue to seek assistance in locating suspect sought on Canada-wide warrant for attempted murder

The Edmonton Police Service continues to seek the public’s assistance in locating 29-year-old Hanad Mohamed Farah in relation to a shooting late last year. On Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018 at approximately 1:35 a.m., police were called to an establishment in the area of Jasper Avenue and 100 Street on the report of a weapons complaint. Upon arrival, officers located a 31-year-old man who had been shot. The man was treated and transported to hospital by EMS with life-threatening injuries. 

Hanad Mohamed Farah, 29, remains wanted by police on outstanding warrants for attempted murder and other firearm-related offences in connection to the shooting. Investigators believe Farah to be armed and dangerous and should not be approached.  

Farah is described as a black male who stands 5’11” tall and weighs approximately 160 lbs. He has brown eyes and thinning black hair.

Investigators believe Farah could also be in the Toronto, Ontario or Saskatoon, Saskatchewan area.  

Police previously laid charges against four other individuals in relation to this incident. 
 


Assist to locate: Hanad Mohamed Farah, 29

Height: 5’11”
Weight: 150 lbs
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown



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Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Public information and warning: Violent offender released

In the interest of public safety, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is issuing the following warning; Gregory Andrew Campbell, 59, is a convicted violent and sexual offender and the Edmonton Police Service has reasonable grounds to believe he is of significant harm to the community upon his release from incarceration and have a duty to warn the public of the risk he poses.

Campbell will be residing in the Edmonton area and will be directly supervised by Edmonton Probation and monitored by the EPS upon release.

Campbell has a history of violent behavior including assault, spousal assault and sexual assault. His violence has resulted in serious personal injury and death to his victims.  Campbell’s risk for violence greatly increases while under the influence of intoxicants, especially alcohol.  Campbell has been known to carry and use weapons in the course of his offences. 

Gregory Campbell, 59

Height: 5’7”

Weight: 160 lbs.

Eyes: Brown

Hair: Brown

Campbell has been placed on a series of court ordered conditions including:

  1. Keep the peace and be of good behaviour;
  2. Have no contact or communication, direct or indirect with his victim
  3. Appear before the court when required to do so by the court;
  4. Notify the court or probation officer in advance of any change of name, employment or occupation;
  5. Report to a probation officer within 2 business days of being released from custody and thereafter, as and when directed by the probation officer;
  6. Attend for assessment and complete to the satisfaction of your probation officer such treatment or counseling as may be recommended by your probation officer which may include but is not limited to substance abuse and sex offender relapse prevention;
  7. Reside at an approved residence or such other place as approved by your probation officer; and
  8. Sign a waiver regarding assessment, counselling and treatment. 

Anyone with any information about any potential breaches of these conditions by Campbell can contact the EPS at 780-423-4567.

The Edmonton Police Service is issuing this information and warning after careful deliberation of all related issues, including privacy concerns, in the belief that it is clearly in the public interest to inform the members of the community. 

Members of the public are advised that the intent of this process is to enable citizens to take suitable precautionary measures. Releasing this information is NOT intended to encourage people to engage in any form of vigilante action.

This information is released under the authority of the FOIP Act, RSA 2000, C. F-25.

 

The information in this release is that which was verifiable prior to the release time indicated. Continued investigation and review could result in additional information or clarification.

 

 


 -30-

 



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Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Police seek public’s assistance locating missing girl

The Edmonton Police Service is asking for the public’s help locating a missing 15-year-old girl.

Willow Winiewski, 15, was reported missing by her family after she did not return home from an outing. She is believed to be in the inner-city or around the Whyte Avenue area and is known to frequent public libraries.

Winiewski is described as 5’5", 140 lbs with brown hair, which could be dyed light brown or black. She has brown eyes and a small scar under her left eye. She may also have a nose ring.

 


Missing Person: Willow Winiewski, 15

Winiewski’s disappearance is considered out of character and as such, there are concerns for her well-being. There are no indications to suggest foul play at this time.



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Monday, December 16, 2019

Police seek public's assistance locating missing female youth

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public's assistance in locating a 14-year-old female youth.

Ocean Lariviere, 14, was last seen by family at approximately 8:20 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 12, 2019, in the area of 101 Street and 129 Avenue when she reportedly left her residence to go to school. Lariviere reportedly arrived at Killarney School (131 Avenue and 91 Street) that morning and then left the school shortly thereafter.

Lariviere is described as an Indigenous female who is 5’5” tall and weighs approximately 145 lbs. She has medium length ash brown hair and a nose piercing in her right nostril. Lariviere was last seen wearing blue jeans, a black turtleneck sweater, a blue Champion windbreaker and black Nike shoes. She was also carrying a black backpack.

Missing Youth: Ocean Lariviere, 14

Lariviere’s disappearance is considered to be out of character and because she is a youth, there are concerns for her well-being. There are no indications to suggest foul play at this time.

Lariviere is familiar with the Edmonton transit system and is known to frequent northwest, west and northeast Edmonton.

Anyone with information regarding Lariviere’s whereabouts is encouraged to call the Edmonton Police Service Complaint Line at 780-423-4567 or the Edmonton Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your tip online at www.p3tips.com/250



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Police warning about break-ins into seniors assisted living residences

Downtown Division officers are alerting seniors in assisted living residences about break and enters into seniors facilities since Dec. 2, 2019 in Downtown Division.

It's believed that the suspect has committed five separate break-ins and has made several other attempts to gain access to facilities.

It has been reported that a suspect is posing as a maintenance worker or security guard to gain access to suites while residents are at home. The suspect convinces the resident that he’s there to do work or check on things. He then distracts the resident and proceeds to steal their valuables in the room.

“We want to remind seniors to not allow anyone they don’t know into their building or suite. They can check with the front desk staff in their facility to confirm if someone was called out to their suite and report any suspicious person to building management,” says Const. Megan Holmes of Downtown Division. “We also want them to remember to please keep the doors to their suite locked at all times.”

The suspect is described as a tall white male, clean shaven, between 30 and 40 years old, dressed in maintenance-worker type clothing.

Officers continue to investigate the break-ins.   

Anyone with information that could help identity the suspect or any other related incidents is asked to 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



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Saturday, December 14, 2019

Police seeking public's assistance in locating dog stolen along with truck

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance locating a truck that was allegedly stolen with a dog in the cab.

On Friday, Dec. 13, 2019, at approximately 12:15 p.m., a truck and trailer were reportedly stolen from outside of a residence in the area of 115 Avenue & 81 Street. The truck, with the dog in the cab, was reportedly running at the time and the trailer was carrying a snow sweeper.

The flatbed trailer was recovered without the sweeper a short time later in the area of 120 Avenue and 76 Street; however, the truck and dog remain missing.

The dog is described as a small, nine-year-old light brown and white Jack Russel Terrier cross named “Nick.” The truck is described as a silver 2011 Ford F150 Alberta plate BZG 9331. A photo of Nick and a stock photo of a similar truck are included below.

Nick

Silver 2011 Ford F150
(stock photo)

“We’re looking for any information on the whereabouts of the truck or the dog,” says Staff Sergeant Bill Clark, Watch Commander with Northwest Division. “We would like to reunite Nick with his family as quickly as possible.”

Anyone who has information about the dog or truck is asked to 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.



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Friday, December 13, 2019

Missing woman located

Joan Henkel, 69, who was reported missing this afternoon, Friday, Dec. 13, 2019, has been located safe and unharmed. The EPS would like to thank the media and the public for their assistance.

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Police seek public's assistance locating missing woman

The Edmonton Police Service is asking for the public’s help locating a missing 69-year-old woman. 

Joan Henkel, 69, was last seen at approximately 1:45 p.m. this afternoon, Friday, Dec. 13, 2019, in the area of 54 Street and 162 Avenue when she reportedly walked away from her residence. Henkel may have boarded the LRT or a bus heading to the Clareview area.

Henkel is described as a white female who weighs approximately 170 lbs.  She was last seen wearing a blue hoodie, black jeans, a reindeer headband with antlers and reading glasses.  A photo of Henkel is included below.

Joan Henkel, 69

Henkel suffers from a medical condition which may cause confusion. As a result, there are concerns for her well-being. There are no indications to suggest foul play.

Anyone who has information about Henkel’s whereabouts is asked to 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.



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Thursday, December 12, 2019

Homicide investigators identify suspect in latest murder 

The Edmonton Police Service is searching for Michael Tyrel Arnold, 31, of Edmonton, in connection to the Dec. 3, 2019, death of Arthur Charles Edward Beauchamp.

Arnold is alleged to have shot and killed Beauchamp, 45, that Tuesday morning at an apartment complex near 103 Avenue and 115 Street in the neighbourhood of Oliver. Arnold is described as a white male, approximately 5’9” tall and 166 pounds with red hair and green eyes. He also has a broken front tooth and a scar on his chin (see photos included below).

Arnold is believed to be armed and dangerous and is arrestable for murder. Anyone with information regarding Arnold’s whereabouts is advised not to approach him and is urged to 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.

Investigators have since located the suspect vehicle they were initially searching for, a grey Nissan Rogue.

Background:

Downtown Division patrol members initially responded to a 911 call regarding a family dispute just after 10 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, to an apartment building near 103 Avenue and 115 Street.

Upon arrival, police and paramedics discovered Beauchamp in medical distress lying on the ground outside of an apartment complex. Paramedics treated and transported him to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

  
Arrestable: Murder suspect, Michael Tyrel Arnold, 31



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Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Police investigating rash of catalytic converter thefts across city

The Edmonton Police Service is investigating the theft of more than 320 catalytic converters taken from vehicles throughout the city since the beginning of October.

The recent rash of incidents, which has seen southeast Edmonton hit the hardest with 69 vehicles targeted since Oct. 1, 2019, has thieves cutting off the pollution devices on predominantly Ford F-Series trucks, F350’s, Ford Econoline and Cutaway vans.

Southwest and west Edmonton have also experienced high levels of catalytic converter thefts with 58 and 50 incidents respectively.

The thefts have occurred largely overnight and involve vehicles often found in industrial areas, auto dealerships and hotel guest parking lots. Most recently, however, vehicles including Honda CRVs, Chevy Cavaliers and Pontiac Sunfires are also being targeted in apartment building parking lots.

Anyone with information about these thefts or the individual(s) seen in the photos below is asked to 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

 
Suspects wanted in connection to catalytic converter thefts in parking lots near 38 Avenue and 99 Street (left) and 122 Avenue and 67 Street (right).




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Friday, December 6, 2019

Autopsy results confirm male died from a gunshot wound 

The Edmonton Medical Examiner has completed an autopsy involving a 45-year-old male who died suspiciously Tuesday morning. 

The ME has confirmed that Arthur Charles Edward Beauchamp, 45, died from a gunshot wound Tuesday morning, and the manner of death was homicide.

Downtown Division patrol members initially responded to a 911 call regarding a family dispute just after 10 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, to an apartment building near 103 Avenue and 115 Street.

Upon arrival, police and paramedics discovered Beauchamp in medical distress lying on the ground outside of an apartment complex.

Paramedics treated and transported him to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Investigators are asking for anyone who may have seen a grey Nissan Rogue or a clean white pick-up truck near 103 Avenue and 115 Street on Tuesday, Dec. 3rd, between 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of these vehicles and/or Mr. Beauchamp’s death is asked to 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.



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Homicide Section investigating suspicious death of female in Duggan

The Edmonton Police Service is investigating the suspicious death of a woman whose body was discovered at a residence in the neighbourhood of Duggan earlier this week.

On Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, at approximately 9:25 a.m., Southwest Division patrol officers responded to a request for assistance from EMS at a residence near 35 Avenue and 107 Street.

Upon arrival, police found 25-year-old Breianna Schamber deceased inside the residence. The Edmonton Medical Examiner completed an autopsy on Wednesday, Dec 4, 2019.

The cause of death is being withheld at this time, pending further investigation. No further details are being released at this time.

Anyone with any information about the death of Breianna Schamber is asked to 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.



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Thursday, December 5, 2019

Police seeing rash of letgo robberies

The Edmonton Police Service is alerting citizens to a reported series of violent robberies and carjackings occurring primarily at online buy-and-sell meetups.

Since October 8, police have responded to nine reports of meetups that ended in robberies or carjackings, the majority of which have occurred in the last two weeks. The suspects respond to sellers’ ads on letgo.com and arrange to meet and purchase the items for sale, in some cases threatening the sellers with a firearm or spraying them with pepper spray before robbing them of the electronics or vehicle being offered for sale.

In one instance that occurred on December 3 at approximately 1 p.m., a seller who was trying to sell a vehicle arranged to meet the suspects at his home in the Baturyn neighbourhood. After being given the keys for a test drive, the two male suspects stole the vehicle, dragging the seller for approximately 150 metres. He was uninjured.

In a few cases, the suspects posed as sellers, advertising items for sale on letgo, then robbing potential buyers at the meeting location.

The suspects are described as black males between the ages of 15 and 17, operating in groups of two or more. Investigators believe the crime series is attributable to a group of youths who are known to police. One 17-year-old male, who cannot be named due to his age, was arrested and charged with robbery with a weapon (x5), possess dangerous weapon (x2), and breach of recognizance, and has since been released on bail. A second suspect has been identified, and charges are pending.

“We want to remind citizens to use caution when meeting up with strangers. Arrange to meet in a safe, visible and public location, not at your home or in your vehicle, and bring another person with you,” says Det. Calvin Mah, EPS Northeast Division. “We also recommend that if the person has a profile photo, ask if they are the person depicted in that image, or ask for a photo or description. If the person who shows up at the meeting point does not match the person depicted, leave immediately. Above all, pay attention to your instincts. If something feels off at any point, abandon the sale.”

For more tips to prepare for a safer online buy-and-sell experience, visit the EPS website.

Anyone with information about this crime or the suspects is asked to 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.




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Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Police seek public’s assistance identifying arson suspect

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance to identify a male suspect allegedly responsible for deliberately setting fire to a vehicle.

On Monday, Dec. 2, 2019, at approximately 4:20 a.m., a male allegedly committed an arson to a vehicle in the area of 29 Street and 44B Avenue. 

Police are releasing CCTV footage and two still images of the suspect in an attempt to identify him. Investigators anticipate the initial flames from the fire would have likely caused burns to the suspect’s hand and face, including his eyebrows and eyelashes. The suspect is believed to be in his early 20s to mid-30s. 


Image 1 - Assist to identify arson suspect


Image 2 – Assist to identify arson suspect




 


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Your community is a HotSpot!

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is launching a new campaign today to alert residents that the community they live or work in, is a Hot Spot for theft from and theft of vehicles. 

“These two crimes continue to be on the rise year after year and we need all communities to be more vigilant about protecting and securing their vehicles,” says Sgt. Smith of West Division Crime Management Team. “Dealing with the aftermath of having your car broken into or stolen, is much worse than making the extra effort to protect your property.”

Nine neighbourhoods in Edmonton will notice large signs by roadways, alerting them that their neighbourhood is a Hot Spot. The campaign focuses on one community in each of the six EPS Divisions.

“These communities historically have had the most theft-from and theft-of vehicles when we analyzed the data from the last five years,” says Sgt. Smith.

The EPS compared statistics from Jan. 1, 2019 to Nov. 30, 2019, which correlated with the statistics over the last five years. The Hot Spot communities include:

Theft of Vehicle

Theft from Vehicle

Downtown Core (78)

Downtown Core (378)

Belvedere (68)

Garneau (188)

Alberta Avenue (67)

Alberta Avenue (128)

Strathcona (41)

Westmount (75)

Summerside (35)

Killarney (68)

Inglewood (34)

Summerside (56)

There have been some occurrences of thefts involving vehicles with a smart key that have been left running, unattended and with key removed. Owners of these vehicles may be unaware that the vehicle may not lock due to a safety override feature in some manufacturers and assume incorrectly that the vehicle will not be able to be driven away.

“It appears that storage of these fobs within vehicles is often an issue. It is very easy to try the vehicle ignition button to see if the vehicle responds, even if no key is visible, in hopes that the vehicle will engage due to a hidden fob,” says Sgt. Smith.

There are many thefts where it’s unknown how a vehicle was broken into. Malls, parking lots and parkades continue to be primary targets for criminals.

“Parking lots and parkades are targets because they are often left unattended with poor lighting thus increasing the chances that thieves will go undetected,” says Sgt. Smith.

Other Theft of Vehicle and Theft from Vehicle Stats:

  • City wide, between Jan. 1 and Nov. 30, 2019, a total of 3,638 vehicles were stolen in Edmonton; and 7,302 thefts from vehicles also occurred. 
  • The number of reported thefts from vehicles in the city has increased by 97 per cent since 2013, which had 3,701 reported incidents.
  • Year to date, 2019 has had the highest number of thefts from vehicles, since 2013
  • Southwest and Downtown Divisions have seen the largest increases this year.
  • For theft of vehicle, there were 700 incidents reported to police just between Sept. 1 and Oct. 31 of this year; 54 of those stolen vehicles were left running with a key inside and 76 had the key or a spare key left in the car.

Tips to prevent theft of and from vehicles:

Do not leave your vehicle running - Under no circumstances should you leave your vehicle unattended while running with the key in the ignition. NOTE: Remote car starters are not a problem; they are designed to shut off if attempts are made to steal the vehicle.

No Spare Keys - Do not leave a spare key hidden in the vehicle. Thieves look for spare keys, and once they break into your vehicle, they know all the hiding spots. You can get a spare key holder for your wallet or purse.

Lock Up Your Vehicle - Always check that the doors, windows, and sun roof are shut and locked when you park your vehicle.  Leave your vehicle in a locked garage where possible. Lock your vehicle even when it is in a locked garage.

Be aware of where you park - park in parking lots that have more than one of the following:

  1. Security cameras
  2. Security patrolling the parking lot
  3. Someone working at an entrance/exit booth
  4. A gated parking lot that needs a pass to get in and out
  5. Well lit
  6. A busy parking lot with lots of people coming and going or an area where there are lots of vehicles or pedestrians passing by

Treat Your Keys Like Cash – Don’t leave keys in places where they are easy to steal, such as a gym locker, on your desk at work, visible in an open purse or unattended in a shopping cart. Thieves will grab and go, then head out to the parking lot and push the button on your key fob until they find your car.  

Use a Steering Wheel Locking Device (e.g. The Club) - A well-secured car will deter thieves. There are other devices available to consumers to stop thieves from easily stealing your vehicle. See your local automotive stores for details. 

Do not leave items in your vehicle - Thieves can be attracted to your car because personal items are left in plain sight. Never leave anything in your vehicle, including loose change, cell phones, CDs, cameras, clothing, sunglasses, cigarettes, lighters, and any other items. 

Install a Remote Car Starter - Remote starters are designed to shut off if anyone attempts to drive the vehicle without a key. This will allow you to warm up your car without risk of theft.  

Don’t leave a spare key fob in your vehicle- This prevents thieves from breaking into your car to see if it can be started and driven away.

Ensure safe storage of Smart Keys/Keyless ignition fobs: Store smart keys away from the vehicle and doors.  Consider investing in a “Faraday bag” to enhance security of the wireless communication system of the vehicle.

To report theft from auto under $5,000 please go to https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/ContactEPS/OnlinePropertyCrime. To report a non-emergency, call the EPS non-emergency line at 780-421-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. For all crimes in progress, call 911.



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Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Homicide section investigating suspicious death of male

The Edmonton Police Service is investigating a suspicious death that occurred in the neighbourhood of Oliver earlier today, Tuesday morning.

Police responded to a 911 call regarding a family dispute just after 10 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, to a dwelling near 103 Avenue and 115 Street.

Upon arrival, police and paramedics discovered a 45-year-old male in medical distress lying on the ground outside of an apartment complex.

Paramedics treated and transported the male to hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 5, 2019.

No further details are being released at this time.

 


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Monday, December 2, 2019

Police identify and charge fraud suspect

The Edmonton Police Service has identified and charged a male suspect believed to have defrauded a citizen of more than $25,000. 

On Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, police issued a media release seeking the public’s assistance identifying a man allegedly involved in a fraud. Between Aug. 16 and Sept. 19, 2019, police believe the male suspect used a stolen credit card to make fraudulent purchases at various locations throughout Edmonton including clothing stores, restaurants and casinos. In total, 145 fraudulent purchases were made totalling more than $25,000.

The suspect has since been identified as Joe Schur, 42, and on Nov. 28, 2019, Schur was charged with fraud over $5,000 and possession of credit card data.  At the time the charges were laid Schur was incarcerated for unrelated offences and he remains in custody.

The EPS would like to thank the media and the public for their assistance.



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Traffic Section investigating fatal pedestrian collision

The EPS is investigating a fatal pedestrian collision that occurred this morning in west Edmonton.

At approximately 7:30 a.m. today, Monday, Dec. 2, 2019, West Division officers responded to the report of a collision in the area of 107 Avenue and 130 Street.

It was reported to police that a male pedestrian was crossing from the south to the north side of 107 Avenue at 130 Street in a marked crosswalk when he was struck by a Jeep Wrangler travelling westbound on 107 Avenue.

EMS responded, treated and transported the 52-year-old male pedestrian to hospital; however, he succumbed to his injuries. The 54-year-old male driver of the Jeep did not report any injuries.

Officers closed 107 Avenue westbound at 127 Street for several hours to investigate. The road has since re-opened.

The EPS Major Collision Investigations Section continues to investigate. There is no additional information available at this time.

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Sunday, December 1, 2019

Investigators charge 24-year-old male with second-degree murder

The Edmonton Police Service has charged a 24-year-old man in connection to the Nov. 28, 2019 death of Douglas Charles Albert Crossman.

West Division patrol officers responded to a 911 call for assistance at an apartment building near 154 Street and 84 Avenue late Thursday afternoon.

Upon arrival, officers discovered the body of 22-year-old Douglas Crossman inside the apartment building.

 

Brayden Barclay, 24, of Edmonton, was arrested yesterday, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, and charged today, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, with one count of second-degree murder.

No further details are being released at this time for investigative purposes.

Investigators continue to encourage anyone with information in relation to this murder to 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.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.




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