Homicide investigators charge 47-year-old man in connection to death of male last weekend

Homicide Section investigators have arrested and charged a 47-year-old Edmonton man in connection to the murder of Terry Allen Maksymyszyn, 53, last weekend.

Mark Robie Wheeler, 47, of Edmonton, was taken into custody and charged with second degree murder yesterday, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021.

The Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy on the body of Terry Allen Maksymyszyn, 53 earlier this week. Cause and manner of death, however, are still not being released at this time. 

Background:

At approximately 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021, Northwest Division patrol members responded to a trouble unknown call at a residence near 128 Avenue and 129 Street.

Upon arrival, members found Maksymyszyn unconscious inside the residence. Members commenced CPR measures on the male until EMS arrived, after which time he was treated and transported to hospital by paramedics.

At approximately 4:20 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 24, 2021, the male succumbed to his injuries. The Edmonton Medical Examiner has scheduled an autopsy for Tuesday morning.

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Brrring on the Polar Plunge

Mark your calendars because it’s the 10th annual Alberta Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) Polar Plunge fundraiser on Sunday, January 31.

This year will be different for the health and safety of all participants. In place of the traditional plunge into Lake Summerside, we are going virtual! This means the Plunge is easier and more inventive than ever. The main rule this year is to let your creativity spark this year’s Plunge in a safe manner that respects local Public Health Orders.

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS)’s team took this year to a new competitive level and asked Edmonton Fire Rescue Service (EFRS)’s Chief Joe Zatylny to join in a freeze at Edmonton Police Headquarters. “The Polar Plunge has been a unique and truly Canadian event in Edmonton for ten years, so we can’t let our Special Olympics athletes down. Instead, we must get creative in our fundraising efforts”, EPS Chief Dale McFee explains. “After nearly a year of the pandemic, this is when we need to find this kind of joy and support for one another the most.”

EPS and EFRS plungers met up for buckets full of laughs and goosebumps on Thursday, January 28, 2021.

“It’s all about supporting our community and our partners. This has been a challenging past year and I’m glad to see that fundraising efforts for important causes that give back to the community are continuing,” says Edmonton Fire Chief Joe Zatylny.

There’s still time to join the Plunge! Here’s how:

1. Register online as a virtual plunger.
2. Registration is $50 to participate, but it includes your $25 registration fee and a $25 a tax-receipted donation (automatically sent via email to all new registrants). It also gets you a $5 Tim Horton’s gift card and a super cute Polar Plunge mask – that will certainly come in handy!
3. Start your fundraising! The more you raise, the more incentives you can receive.
4. Get creative on January 31^st! Use the Halloween costume you didn’t get to use and plunge into a cold bath, a hot bath, a shower, a snow pile, or dive into your pajamas, a warm blanket, a tub of ice cream, a pot of chili… let your imagination run wild. Whatever you choose to do, you’ve done it for an amazing cause. And bring in the whole family (as long as you are following Public Health Orders) to make it the best plunge yet!
5. Don’t forget to upload your photos and/or videos of your big at-home plunge to your fundraising page. If you share it on your social media, be sure to tag @SpecialOAlberta.

 

For more information on the plunge, visit the Special Olympics Alberta Polar Plunge web page.

It’s Freezin’ for a Reason Season, even if you stay in!

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Who we freeze for:

Every plunge makes a difference to more than 3,300 Special Olympics Alberta athletes, who represent 140 communities across Alberta. Special Olympics Alberta is dedicated to enriching the lives of Albertans with intellectual disabilities through the transformative power of sport. Programs cater to all ages and a wide range of abilities.

Thanks to the dedication of nearly 1,000 volunteer heroes, there is a Special Olympics Alberta sports program in Alberta every day. Click here to learn more about Special Olympics Alberta.

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Police seek public tips in historical missing person investigation

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a man who has not been seen for seven years.

Camrose Police Service began an investigation into a missing male, Nowell Halfe, 52, in August 2019. The preliminary investigation revealed that he was known to have been in Edmonton, and the file was transferred to the EPS in June 2020. Through an extensive investigation, the EPS Missing Persons Unit has been able to confirm that the last known contact anyone had with Halfe was in January of 2014 in Edmonton.

Halfe has brown hair, hazel eyes, stands 5’10” tall and weighs approximately 160 lbs. He typically has facial hair.

Due to the extensive time lapse since he was last seen, investigators and family are concerned for Halfe’s well-being, and hoping the public may have information that will help progress this investigation. At this time, it is unknown whether foul play is involved in his disappearance.

 

Missing: Nowell Halfe, 52

Anyone with information regarding Halfe’s whereabouts is asked to contact the EPS immediately 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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Police seek assistance identifying male in Dec. 8 homicide investigation

Homicide investigators are looking for tips about the identity of a male observed near the scene of a Dec. 8 homicide. 

The male was observed on security footage to have been in the area of 109 Avenue between 106 and 109 Street, between 2:30 and 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2020.

The male is not a suspect at this time. Police are looking to identify him so they can speak with him, as he was in the area at the time of the homicide and may have information that could assist investigators.

  

The male in question may be associated to a black SUV that was in the area at the same time.

Anyone with information about the identity of the male 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.

Background

At approximately 3 p.m. on Dec. 8, 2020, Downtown Division officers responded to a weapons complaint in the area of 109 Street and 109 Avenue. Upon arrival, officers found a male lying injured in the street. Paramedics responded to the scene, but the man was pronounced deceased.

An autopsy completed on Dec. 9, 2020 determined that Mahad Bashir Farah, 25, died as a result of a gunshot wound and confirmed his death a homicide.

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Driver facing TSA charge in connection to Jan. 4th cyclist fatality

A 62-year-old male is facing a charge under the Traffic Safety Act, in connection to the death of a 64-year-old cyclist back on Jan 4, 2021.

At approximately 3 p.m., Jan. 4, 2021, a collision occurred at the intersection of 50 Street and 94B Avenue. An east bound flat deck picker truck and trailer, driven by the 62-year-old male, was turning south on 50 Street from 94B Avenue when it struck a cyclist.

The 64-year-old male cyclist sustained fatal injuries on scene. Speed was not considered a factor.

The driver of the 2014 Western Star flat deck picker truck is charged with failure to proceed safely after stopping at an intersection under the TSA.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/36iRnd2

Autopsy completed into death of 53-year-old male over the weekend

An autopsy conducted by the Edmonton Medical Examiner was completed yesterday, Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021, into the suspicious death of a 53-year-old male last Sunday.

The Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy yesterday on the body of Terry Allen Maksymyszyn, 53. Cause and manner of death are not being released at this time for investigative purposes.

Homicide detectives continue to investigate. Anyone with information about the circumstances surrounding this suspicious death is asked 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:

At approximately 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021, Northwest Division patrol members responded to a trouble unknown call at a residence near 128 Avenue and 129 Street.

Upon arrival, members found an unconscious male inside the residence. Members commenced CPR measures on the male until EMS arrived, after which time he was treated and transported to hospital by paramedics.

At approximately 4:20 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 24, 2021, the male succumbed to his injuries.

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Police seek public's assistance locating missing girl

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating an 11-year-old female who was last seen earlier this evening.  

Halimo Halimsheikh-Marr, 11, was last seen in the area of 164A Avenue and 115 Street at 4:40 p.m. today, January 26, 2021. She is wearing a head covering, grey winter jacket, and carrying a purple and grey school bag.

Halimsheikh-Marr’s disappearance is considered to be out of character, and as such, her family and police are concerned for her welfare. There is no indication of foul play at this time.

Missing: Halimo Halimsheikh-Marr, 11

Anyone with information regarding Halimsheikh-Marr’s whereabouts is asked to contact the EPS immediately 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.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3iPn2Ys

Police seek public’s assistance locating missing 18-year-old male

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating an 18-year-old male who was last seen Jan. 12, 2021.

Yai Magok, 18, was last seen at his residence near 135 Avenue and 57 Street, at approximately 12 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021. Police were notified of his disappearance on Jan. 18^th.

Magok is described as a black male, 5’7” tall, 160 lbs. He was last seen wearing a blue Nike sweat suit and black Air Jordan shoes. 

Yai’s disappearance is considered to be out of character, and as such, both his family and police are concerned for his welfare. There is no indication of foul play at this time.

Anyone with information regarding Yai Magok’s whereabouts is asked to contact the EPS immediately 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.


 Missing: Yai Magok, 18

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Homicide Section investigating suspicious death in northwest Edmonton

Homicide detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the suspicious death of a 53-year-old male that occurred early Sunday morning in northwest Edmonton.

At approximately 10:30 p.m. last night, Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021, Northwest Division patrol members responded to a trouble not known call at a residence near 128 Avenue and 129 Street.

Upon arrival, members found an unconscious male inside the residence. Members commenced CPR measures on the male until EMS arrived, after which time he was treated and transported to hospital by paramedics.

At approximately 4:20 a.m. today, Sunday, Jan. 24, 2021, the male succumbed to his injuries. The Edmonton Medical Examiner has scheduled an autopsy for Tuesday morning.

 

Anyone with information about the circumstances surrounding this suspicious death is asked 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.

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Public information and warning: Sexual offender released

In the interest of public safety, the Edmonton Police Service is issuing the following warning; Russell Sikyea is a convicted sexual offender and the Edmonton Police Service believes he poses a significant risk of harm to the community, particularly vulnerable woman and, as such, have a duty to warn the public.[No text in field]

Sikyea is in the Edmonton area and is not subject to any court orders or conditions. The Edmonton Police Service is seeking a court order on SIKYEA given the risk posed.

Sikyea has a history of breaking into residences and sexually assaulting adult females.  He also has a voyeuristic history of breaking into residences and being found in the rooms of females, including minors, while they are sleeping. His risk for violence, including sexual violence, increases with the consumption of drugs and alcohol and he should be avoided if seen in the community.

Anyone with any information regarding Sikyea 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.

Russell Sikyea, 37
Height: 5’6”
Weight: 208 lb
Eyes: Brow
Hair: black
Tattoo: “Blessed” on right cheek

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 and the common law.

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.

 

 

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Bias awareness training incorporated across EPS

Edmonton Police Service outlines projects to improve bias awareness and promote equity and inclusion in its approach to policing.

Building on stakeholder engagement initiatives in 2020, including the Commitment to Action, Roadmap: Systemic Review of Issues Facing Indigenous People, and the LGBTQ2S+ Apology Action Plan, the EPS is working on a number of projects to improve bias awareness across the service.

“The focus of the Equity, Inclusion, and Human Rights branch is to continue to build an equitable and respectful police service, and promote accountability and fairness in our approach to policing,” says Insp. Mitchell Flaman, of the EPS Equity, Inclusion and Human Rights Branch. “Our review and continuous improvement of EPS training began well before the events of this past year, and we will keep working to address barriers to equity and uphold principles of inclusion."

Projects currently underway include:

Unconscious Bias E-learning Module

A mandatory electronic learning module, “Managing Unconscious Bias” is currently being rolled out across the service. Reviewed by representatives of marginalized and underserved communities, this introductory module was developed to assist police in better understanding and interrupting the cycle of bias and its implications in law enforcement. The module is currently being taken by all patrol officers and is expected to be rolled out to the rest of the organization, including sworn and civilian members, in the coming month.

This module is one of the first steps in the creation of an anti-discrimination series intended to promote an understanding of equity and inclusion within the EPS. In-person training is planned once it is safe to do so, as well as an Equitable and Inclusive Leadership Training series for supervisors.

LGBTQ2S+ Acceptance Training

The EPS has an internal LGBTQ2S+ Employee Resource Group consisting of queer-identified EPS staff and allies who advocate for a safe and inclusive working environment. This group has been heavily involved in the creation and delivery of the LGBTQ2S+ training curriculum for Police Communications Branch (dispatch), Recruit Training Unit, and the newly developed Human-centred Engagement and Liaison Partnership (HELP) Unit. The learning objectives of this training prepare participants to understand the history and trauma of law enforcement and the LGBTQ2S+ community within the Edmonton context, and provide strategies to respectfully communicate and build rapport when working with queer-identifying individuals to promote safety and wellbeing.

Intranet Resources

An Education and Awareness Knowledge Repository is being built for the internal EPS intranet. This will provide resources, such as toolkits, guides, job aids, eLearning modules, videos and articles on topics including discrimination, equity and inclusion, Indigenous issues, LGBTQ2S+ inclusion, and more. 

PACE

The EPS continues to expand upon the Police and Community Engagement (PACE) Team program, which supports EPS divisions to build relationships with Edmonton’s culturally diverse communities.

Inclusive Language Guide

An Inclusive Language Guide is being developed and is expected to be distributed service-wide in early 2021. This will support EPS membership in knowing, understanding, and using appropriate language and terminology with respect to our marginalized and underserved communities. It will suggest common language and communication choices that are both accurate and respectful to enable the membership to accurately communicate and respond to the needs of Edmonton’s diverse communities.

Community Policing Modules

Community policing modules that are currently being offered to Recruit Training Unit will be expanded to the rest of the service. The curriculum includes education on trauma-informed policing and the victim-offender overlap through discussing case studies of Indigenous, LGBTQ2S+, and Newcomer trauma, adverse childhood experiences, and cultural safety.

Recruit Training

The recruit training curriculum is reviewed and updated yearly. In addition to the Community Policing Modules listed above, the curriculum currently includes:

• Bias awareness training, understanding adverse childhood experiences, victim-offender overlap, historical trauma and cultural safety, trauma-informed policing, police legitimacy and procedural justice.
• De-escalation training: the mental health module has been increased to a full week and concludes with a full day of scenarios with actors portraying different stages of persons in crisis.
• Community Safety and Well-being Bureau training about alternatives to apprehension, as well as the EPS Human-centred Engagement and Liaison Partnership (HELP) and Heavy Users of Service (HUoS) programs to assist in off-ramping vulnerable people from involvement with police and the justice system.
• Basic Emergency Crowd Control training for demonstrations, which has evolved over the last 10 years with new tactics and techniques for de-escalation.

Needs Assessment

A needs assessment has been initiated to determine what gaps still remain on addressing issues of systemic discrimination and bias, not only as it impacts communities, but also members within the police service.

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Recent death deemed homicide; investigators seek tips, surveillance and dash cam footage from neighbourhood

Homicide detectives continue to seek information in relation to a shooting that claimed the life of a 49-year-old man on Sunday.

On Jan. 17, 2021, around 6:15 a.m., police were alerted to a weapons complaint in the area of 105 Avenue and 157 Street. Upon arrival, officers located Dion William McCallum, 49, inside a residence with life-threatening injuries. The man was treated and transported to hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

An autopsy was performed on the victim yesterday, Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021 and the Medical Examiner determined that McCallum died from a gunshot wound.  The manner of death is homicide.

Homicide investigators continue to seek information about this incident and encourage anyone with surveillance video (including doorbell cameras and dash cam video) from the neighborhood to contact police immediately.

Anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity or vehicle(s) in the area of 105 Avenue and 157 Street around 5:45 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, 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.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3itMFOt

Homicide Section investigating death after early morning shooting

Homicide detectives are investigating the death of a man following a shooting just after 6:15 a.m. this morning. Today, Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, police were alerted to a weapons complaint in the area of 105 Avenue and 157 Street. Upon arrival, officers located a man inside a residence with life-threatening injuries. The man was treated and transported to hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. 

Homicide Section has taken the lead of the investigation and are asking any residents with video surveillance in the neighborhood to contact police. 

An autopsy has been scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021. 


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Missing man located

Tab Milbrath, 55, who was reported missing yesterday, Friday, Jan. 15, 2021, 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 man

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing 55-year-old male who was last seen this morning in central Edmonton. 

Tab Milbrath, 55, was last seen at the Royal Alexandra Hospital (Kingsway Avenue & 102 Street) at approximately 10:30 a.m. this morning, Friday, Jan. 15, 2021.

Milbrath is described as a white male with a slim build who is 6’3” tall and approximately 160 lbs. He has long black hair that is worn in a ponytail reaching the middle of his back and has a beard.  He may be wearing grey sweatpants, a green plaid shirt with a black shirt underneath, a grey winter jacket, a grey toque and black shoes.

Missing Person: Tab Milbrath, 55

Milbrath is deaf and has other medical conditions that may make communication difficult. He also requires regular medication. As a result, police are concerned for his welfare. Investigators do not suspect foul play at this time.

Anyone with information regarding Milbrath’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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Police seize thousands in cash and drugs following drug trafficking investigation

 The Edmonton Police Service has seized more than $80,000 in drugs and cash following a three-month long drug trafficking investigation. 

In October 2020, EPS Drug and Gang Enforcement (EDGE) Unit initiated an investigation into the suspected drug dealing activities of a 36-year-old male living in the Edmonton area. On Friday, Jan 8, 2021, EDGE Unit, with the assistance of the RCMP Emergency Response Team and the EPS Tactical Unit, executed search warrants at two residences, one in Pinnacle Ridge Estates in Sturgeon County and the other in Sherwood Park. Three individuals, a male and two females, were arrested as a result. During the search of the Sturgeon County property and a vehicle, police located a variety of drugs, weapons, ammunition, identity documents and cash, including:

• 102.4 grams fentanyl (approximate street value of $25,000)
• 189.9 grams of methamphetamine (approximate street value of $15,200)
• 2 L of GHB (approximate street value of $2,000)
• 3.6 grams of cocaine hydrochloride (approximate street value of $300)
• A large variety of drug paraphernalia and items consistent with the production of controlled substances
• A loaded 12-gauge shotgun
• Two rounds of .40 caliber ammunition
• One spent .40 caliber casing
• 19 rounds of .30-06 ammunition
• 38 rounds of .308 ammunition
• Two sets of soft body armour
• Numerous counterfeit and fraudulent identity documents, including fake firearms licenses
• Numerous pieces of equipment used for the manufacturing of fraudulent identity documents
• Approximately $39,000 in cash
  
  

 Photos of some of the items seized are included below.

Landon Borkowski, 36, Carley Rycroft, 27, and Ashley Sherwin, 40, are facing over 35 combined criminal charges including possession for the purpose of trafficking, production of a controlled substance, proceeds of crime over $5,000, possession of identity documents, possess body armour without valid permit and possession of a firearm/ammunition contrary to an order. Borkowski is also facing charges under the Child and Family Enhancement Act and the Drug Endangered Children Act due to the readily accessible nature of drugs and firearms located in the presence of a child.

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Man arrested for alleged child abduction

The Edmonton Police Service has charged a 52-year-old man following an alleged child abduction incident that took place in west Edmonton yesterday afternoon. 

At approximately 12:15 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2020, West Division officers responded to the report of a suspicious person in the area of 177 Street and 69 Avenue. It was reported to police that an adult male was attempting to lure a child away from the area. Upon arrival, police were directed by a witness to a nearby shopping complex where they located the child and took the male suspect into custody without incident. The accused also had two imitation firearms in his possession at the time of his arrest.

Curtis Allan Poburan, 52, has since been charged with abduction of a child under the age of 14 years, criminal harassment, use imitation firearm in the commission of an offence, possession of an imitation weapon for the purpose of committing an offence (x2), carry a concealed weapon (x2), breach of probation order(x3) and failure to comply with an order.

Investigators believe there may be additional complainants and are encouraging anyone who may have been victimized in a similar way to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. 

The child is receiving support from the Zebra Child Advocacy Centre. To find information about the support provided by the Zebra Child Advocacy Centre, visit their website. Information about online luring and child abuse can be found on the Canadian Centre for Child Protection website. 

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3e8Xp1j arrested for alleged child abduction

Assist to locate: suspect in shooting wanted on warrants

The Edmonton Police Service has issued arrest warrants for Ayoub Ali, 24, who is a suspect in a New Year’s Eve shooting. 

At approximately 10:45 p.m. on Dec. 31, 2020, it was reported that a male had been shot during an altercation at a small gathering in a residence in the area of 106 Street and 10 Avenue. The 24-year-old male victim was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries, but is now recovering. 

Ayoub Ali, 24, is wanted on warrants for eight charges, including attempted murder, aggravated assault and possession of a prohibited firearm.

Investigators believe Ali is in possession of a firearm. He is therefore considered dangerous and should not be approached.

Ayoub Ali, 24

Ali is a Black male, 5’9” tall and weighing approximately 130 lbs, with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone who sees Ali is asked not to approach him and call police immediately.

Anyone with any information related to the shooting or Ali’s whereabouts is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250. 

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3i5R2Pt

Autopsies conducted on two deceased; deaths confirmed as homicides

The EPS Homicide Section continues to investigate the circumstances around the deaths of two people found deceased inside a residence last week. Around 7:30 p.m., on Wednesday, Jan. 6., 2021, police attended a home in the area of 111 Street and 78 Avenue under suspicious circumstances. Upon arrival, officers located a deceased man and woman.

An autopsy was completed on 29-year-old Deidra Aldridge on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2021, and an autopsy was completed on 30-year-old Daniel Grandbois on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2021. The causes of death are not being released at this time for investigative reasons. The manner of death in both cases is deemed to be homicide.  

Neither of the victims were residents of the home.

Homicide investigators continue to seek tips from anyone with information about the circumstances that led up to these deaths. 

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3bvi0i0

Police seek assistance to identify suspects in pharmacy robberies

The Edmonton Police Service’s Robbery Section is investigating a recent series of south side pharmacy robberies.

Between Dec. 21, 2020 and Jan. 6, 2021, four Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacies and one cannabis shop have been the target of armed, violent robberies. The suspects have reportedly used a variety of weapons, including an imitation handgun. In two of the occurrences, pepper spray was discharged at witnesses. Three people suffered effects of pepper spray in the robberies. No other injuries were reported.

The robberies have occurred on:

• Dec. 21, 2020 at 8:45 p.m. at the Shoppers Drug Mart at 62 Avenue and 199 Street
• Dec. 28, 2020 at 9:50 p.m. at the Shoppers Drug Mart at Rabbit Hill Road and Mullen Way
• Jan. 2, 2021 at 10:06 p.m. at Plant Life Cannabis at 101 Avenue and 186 Street
• Jan. 4, 2021 at 9:53 p.m. at Shoppers Drug Mart at Webber Greens Drive
• Jan. 6, 2021 at 10:35 p.m. at Shoppers Drug Mart at 111 Street and Ellerslie Road

 

Investigators are releasing the following images of two male suspects believed to be responsible for this series of robberies.

 

      

All images above: first suspect male

 

Image above: second suspect male

 

Anyone with information about the suspect’s identities, or who may have witnessed suspicious vehicles or activity at the times and locations of the robberies is asked to come forward by contacting 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.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/38qK5oU

Police seek vehicle and person of interest in missing person investigation

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a vehicle and driver of interest in the Christmas Eve disappearance of Billie Wynell Johnson.

The vehicle, a black Dodge Ram, was captured on surveillance video leaving the downtown area and headed westbound out of the city between the hours of 9:30 p.m. on Christmas Eve, 2020 and 1:14 a.m. on Christmas Day.

Vehicle of interest: black Dodge Ram (stock photo)

 

Surveillance video of vehicle of interest

 

The vehicle was driven by the male pictured below.

Person of interest: male driver of black Dodge Ram

Investigators are looking to speak with anyone who may have seen the truck and driver on Christmas Eve or observed any suspicious activity involving the truck and driver.

Police continue to look for any information regarding the whereabouts of Billie Johnson, 30, who was last seen in the area of 113 Street and 107 Avenue on the evening of December 24, 2020.

She has dark hair, stands 5’7” tall and weighs approximately 140 lbs. She has a flower tattoo on her left clavicle and a tattoo down her forearm that says “Gianna.” She was last seen wearing tan hiking boots, black pants, a grey or blue FILA sweater, and carrying a small black Adidas tote bag with white writing.

Billie Wynell Johnson, 30

Anyone with information regarding the person and vehicle of interest or Johnson’s whereabouts is asked to contact the EPS immediately 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

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/38oyN4H

Three charged in straw buying, firearms trafficking activities

Three men are facing 26 charges in connection to firearms trafficking.

Four Glock 48 handguns purchased through straw-buying

In December 2020, the EPS Firearms Investigation Unit (FIU) became aware of suspicious firearms purchases that indicated the buyer was a “straw buyer,” a term used to describe someone who uses a legitimate Possession and Acquisition Licence to purchase guns legally and then sell them illegally.

On Dec. 23, 2020, it is alleged that the buyer, Marty Wilson, 49, left his residence in Valleyview, AB, and drove to Edmonton, where he purchased four Glock 48 handguns. He then picked up a second male, Daniel Graham, 27, and continued to an address in south Edmonton, where a third male, Gabriel Adam, 28, met with them.

Hours later, Wilson and Graham left the residence and were arrested. Upon arrest, police searched the vehicle the two men were traveling in and located an original Glock box missing one of the recently purchased Glock 48 handguns and one of the two magazines it had originally contained, as well as three other boxes, each containing one Glock 48 handgun and two magazines. Police also located small quantities of cocaine and fentanyl.

Adam was arrested a short time later in a second vehicle, where police located and seized the loaded Glock 48 that was recently purchased by Wilson on the front seat. Throughout the vehicle, police also found approximately 120 g of cocaine with a street value of $12,400; 160 g of fentanyl with a street value of $25,000; and $6,500 CAD in cash.

A search warrant of a Valleyview, AB residence resulted in the seizure of 12 non-restricted firearms.

The men were charged as follows:

-Marty Wilson, 49, with firearms trafficking (x2), possession of firearms for the purposes of trafficking (x4), possession of loaded restricted firearm and alter or deface serial number

-Daniel Graham, 27, with firearms trafficking, possession of firearms for the purposes of trafficking (x4), possession of loaded restricted firearm, alter or deface serial number, unauthorized possession of firearm and possession of a controlled substance (x3)

-Gabriel Adam, 28, with possession of loaded restricted firearm, unauthorized possession of restricted firearm, possession of loaded firearm in vehicle, possession of controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking (x3) and proceeds of crime over $5000.

“Straw purchasing is one of the ways firearms make it into the hands of criminals and onto our streets, and traffickers of firearms can come from many sources,” says Sgt. Eric Stewart, EPS Firearms Investigation Unit. “There are no jurisdictional boundaries to firearms trafficking, and we will be relentless in our pursuit of gun crime in our city and province. We will continue to hold those accountable who choose to commit gun crime, which contributes to the degradation of public safety.” 

The EPS is grateful to the RCMP Grande Prairie and Valleyview Detachments, RCMP National Weapons Enforcement Support Team (NWEST) and the RCMP Emergency Response Team for their assistance in this file.

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Homicide detectives lay charge in 2019 murder

A man has been charged in the July 8, 2019 death of a 29-year-old victim

On Monday, Jan. 4, 2021, Homicide Section detectives arrested and charged Edwin Luberisse, 35 with 2^nd degree murder. 

Marcus Streete, 29, was found injured laying on a lawn outside a townhouse complex in the area of 89 Street and 144 Avenue just after 5 a.m. on July 8, 2019. He was treated by EMS and rushed to hospital but passed away later that day. 

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2CLN5fj detectives lay charge in 2019 murder

Homicide Section investigating two suspicious deaths

Homicide detectives are investigating the deaths of two people found inside a residence yesterday evening.

Around 7:30 p.m. yesterday, Wednesday, Jan. 6., 2021, police attended a residence in the area of 111 Street and 78 Avenue under suspicious circumstances. Upon arrival, officers located two deceased individuals. Investigators are treating both deaths as suspicious.

Homicide Section is leading this investigation and no further information is available for release at this time.

Autopsies have not yet been scheduled. 

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Police seeking information, video footage, related to recent shooting

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public's assistance gathering information about a reported shooting that took place in northwest Edmonton over the weekend.

On Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021, Northwest Division officers responded to the report of a shooting in the area of St. Albert Trail and Yellowhead Trail.

It was reported to police that at approximately 5:15 a.m. a white Mercedes sedan travelling westbound on Yellowhead Trail came to a stop at a red light on the off ramp to go south on St. Albert Trail. A dirty, light coloured Volkswagen Jetta in an adjacent lane was also reportedly waiting to go southbound at the intersection. The occupants of both vehicles allegedly made several hand gestures to one another through their closed windows when the passenger of the Volkswagen, described as a Middle Eastern male with a beard, lowered his window and motioned for the male driver of the Mercedes to do the same. As the Mercedes’ driver lowered his window, the Volkswagen’s passenger reportedly produced a firearm and shot at him, narrowly missing the sedan’s occupants and instead striking a dark coloured Dodge Caravan that was waiting at the intersection to travel northbound on St. Albert Trail. The Volkswagen Jetta, described as 2011 or newer, then reportedly fled the scene southbound on St. Albert Trail.

The two male occupants of the Mercedes and the lone male occupant of the Dodge did not report any injuries.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone with information about the Volkswagen Jetta, its two male occupants or the shooting to contact the EPS. Drivers in the area who may have dash cam footage that was active at that time are also encouraged to contact police. A map of the area and the reported direction of travel of the Volkswagen is included below.

Investigators believe this was a random event and none of the individuals knew one another.

Anyone with information about this crime 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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Police lay charges in recent stabbing

The Edmonton Police Service has charged a 36-year-old man in relation to a recent stabbing on a transit bus in central Edmonton.

Thanks to a tip from the public, Brandon Letendre, 36, was located and arrested on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2020. He has since been remanded and is charged with robbery, aggravated assault, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public, possession of a controlled substance and other outstanding criminal warrants.

The EPS would like the thank the public and the media for their assistance with this investigation.

Background

At approximately 8:35 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, Northwest Division officers were called to the report of a stabbing on a transit bus in the area of 112 Avenue and 95 Street.

It was reported to police that a male stabbed a passenger after attempting to steal the passenger’s backpack. The suspect then exited the bus and fled the area on foot.

EMS responded, treated and transported the 55-year-old male passenger to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. He has since been released. No other injuries were reported.

The suspect and passenger were not known to one another.

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Police investigating fatal collision

EPS Major Collision Investigations Section (MCIS) is investigating a collision that resulted in the death of a cyclist this afternoon.

At approximately 3 p.m. today, January 4, 2021, a collision occurred at the intersection of 50 Street and 94B Avenue. An east bound flat deck picker truck and trailer, driven by a 62-year-old male, was turning south on 50 Street from 94B Avenue when it struck a cyclist.

The 64-year-old male cyclist sustained fatal injuries on scene.

MCIS is investigating the collision. Speed is not considered a factor.

Any witnesses to the collision are asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone.

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Public information and warning: Violent offender released

In the interest of public safety, the Edmonton Police Service is issuing the following warning; Kelly Weir is a convicted violent offender, and the Edmonton Police Service has reasonable grounds to believe he will commit another violent offence against someone while in the community.

Weir will be residing in the Edmonton area.  The Edmonton Police Service is seeking a court order on Weir and he will be monitored by the Behavioural Assessment Unit of the Edmonton Police Service.

Weir’s risk of offending behavior increases significantly if under the influence of intoxicants, especially alcohol.

Weir’s violent offences often result in physical harm to his victims and he has been known to carry and utilize weapons in the commission of his offences, especially a knife.  Weir is quick to anger, especially if he perceives being challenged, which can escalate to violence very quickly, especially if he is intoxicated.  This anger and violence can be directed at anyone that he comes into contact with in the community.

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

• He must live at a residence approved by the Provincial Court or his supervisor and must not change that address until he has received written approval from his supervisor.
• He must abide by a curfew of 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily unless a varied time is approved in writing by his supervisor.
• He will not have any guests at his residence during his hours of curfew unless they have been identified and approved by his supervisor.
• He shall not purchase, possess or consume any alcoholic beverages or cannabis products. He shall not consume or possess any drug listed in the schedules of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, any prescription drugs not prescribed to him, or any other intoxicating substances.
• He must not have or allow any other person to have alcohol or cannabis products at his place of residence.
• He must not possess any drug paraphernalia such as crack or marijuana pipes, self-made pipes of any kind, e-cigarettes, bongs, water pipes, cigarette papers, rolling papers, or syringes.
• He must not be in any licensed premise other than a dining room for the sole purpose of having a meal. He must not attend at any liquor store or cannabis dispensary.
• He must not travel out of the City of Edmonton without written approval of his supervisor or the Provincial Court of Alberta.
• He must not be in possession of weapons of any kind, including knives, except in his residence or at a restaurant for the sole purpose of consuming a meal, bear spray or dog spray, firearms, ammunition, explosive material, or any weapons whether homemade or otherwise.
  
  

Anyone with any information about any potential breaches of these conditions by Weir 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.

Kelly Samuel Weir, 55
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 195 lbs
Eyes: brown
Hair: black/grey

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.

 

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Police seek public's assistance locating missing woman

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing 49-year-old woman.

Audrey Ramona Beaver, 49, was reported missing to police on Dec. 5, 2020.

Beaver has black hair, brown eyes, stands 5’2” tall and weighs approximately 120 lbs. She has a large tattoo of a cross on her right forearm.

Beaver’s family has not seen or heard from her for several months, which is out of character for her. Police and family are therefore concerned for her welfare. There are no indications of foul play at this time.

Beaver has ties to Slave Lake, but has been living in Edmonton’s inner city. Police have received information that indicates she may have gone to Toronto.

Missing: Audrey Ramona Beaver, 49

Beaver’s cross tattoo on right forearm

Anyone with information regarding Beaver’s whereabouts is asked to contact the EPS immediately 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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A little HELP goes a long way

The Edmonton Police Service’s (EPS) Community Safety and Well-being Bureau (CSWB) houses the specialized units who focus on the wellness of our city’s youth, vulnerable populations, and high-risk offenders. These resources address areas where we can make the most positive impact and truly be the voice of influence

HELP is one of the new additions to EPS’ CSWB. The Human-centred Engagement and Liaison Partnership (HELP) Unit, developed in equal partnership with Boyle Street Community Services, works collaboratively with our partners to off-ramp people to independence and sustained positive outcomes. The Unit navigates individuals to the appropriate service providers before the community members get entrenched or caught up in one of our complex judicial systems. HELP focuses on those individuals at greatest risk for victimization and offending, and at greatest risk and harm to themselves, others, and the community as a whole.

How does HELP work?

HELP is a client-centred, multi-disciplinary approach with navigation being the critical aspect of the response to the client, who will be directly involved in their individual case and care plan. The ultimate outcome will be reflected in the improvement achieved in each individual’s life situation.

EPS Constables team up with Boyle Street Community Services Navigators who have the knowledge and skill set to support community members to provide referrals, follow-ups, and case management plans. This is typically done by utilizing external community service providers. Essentially, HELP will provide the direct link to external partners, thus providing better outcomes for community members. We expect this will reduce demand on EPS’ frontline officers, thus allowing them to better serve the rest of our city and respond to crimes and promote community safety.

Although HELP is officially launching today, the unit has been busy throughout 2020. As the teams of Constables and Navigators formed, they began advocating with numerous external agencies for their support in this new initiative. Over 15 partnering organizations are now supporting us and our goal to change lives by promoting well-being.

With partners onboard, HELP teams began their daily proactive measures, which is the most important piece of this unit. “We’re building relationships between social services and the frontline, as well as the frontline and the community members they’re meeting on a daily basis,” said Navigator Manager Doug Cooke. “This takes many shapes, like casual conversations, responding in a time of crisis, supporting them in their journey or handing out snacks and water as a simple, yet powerful first step in initiating the building of trust among our vulnerable community members.” In many cases, HELP teams build a rapport and discover individual’s basic needs that weren’t being met, or barriers that prevented them from getting support.

“We have given community members a monthly bus pass so they could attend appointments because transportation was their major barrier. Other citizens received assistance completing forms to obtain pension, housing, medical care, or even obtaining identification because they didn’t know who could help them or where to go,” explained EPS’ Social Policing Division’s Acting Superintendent Kellie Morgan. “Then we have the truly heartwarming stories. We’ve helped community members gain keys to their own homes; sometimes it’s the first roof over their head in decades. Others are reconnected with family members across the country and our team assists in getting the community member to their family so they can be surrounded by those who love them and can support them.”

Thanks to the partnership with the Katz Group, HELP and additional EPS units like the Heavy Users of Service, and some of our external partners with shared clients, goals, and outcomes, will move into an integrated site in the spring. This co-location will allow agencies to be better aligned in the supports provided to the community members, which hasn’t been possible until now. “We believe having multiple agencies co-locate will allow us to develop better plans for our clients now that we will be able to collaborate directly with one another. We will look to create efficiencies and avoid duplication of supports, fill in gaps, and ultimately change lives for the better, while ensuring exemplary services to the vulnerable population within our city,” A/Supt. Morgan said.

With the full launch of HELP, the unit will expand into their operational/reactive assistance. HELP will take calls from our officers and provide them with support over the phone, have the officer transport the client to our building, or HELP will send a Navigator directly to the client. This is where we will provide the off-ramp solution to our officers instead of the traditional option of “arrest, charge, repeat”. which simply has not solved the underlying basic humanistic needs that has led this person to this moment. We endeavour to break the cycle and be the voice of influence, as we work in partnership and look to resolve the underlying basic humanistic needs that has led this person to this moment.

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Police investigating fatal collision

EPS Major Collision Investigations Section (MCIS) is investigating a fatal collision that occurred this afternoon in south Edmonton.

At approximately 12:30 p.m. today, January 2, 2021, a collision occurred at the intersection of Ellerslie Road and Rabbit Hill Road. A left turning minivan driven by a 73-year-old female struck a southbound SUV driven by a 44-year-old female.

EMS treated and transported the 39-year-old male passenger of the minivan to hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the SUV was taken to hospital for precautionary measures and released. No other injuries were reported.

MCIS is investigating the collision. Speed and alcohol are not considered factors in the collision.

Any witnesses to the collision are asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone.

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Police seek public's assistance locating missing woman

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing 30-year-old woman.

Billie Wynell Johnson, 30, was last seen in the area of 113 Street and 107 Avenue on the evening of December 24, 2020. She was reported missing to police on Monday, Dec. 28, 2020.

Johnson has dark hair, stands 5’7” tall and weighs approximately 140 lbs. She has a flower tattoo on her left clavicle and a tattoo down her forearm that says “Gianna.” She was last seen wearing tan hiking boots, black pants, a grey or blue FILA sweater, and carrying a small black Adidas tote bag with white writing.

Johnson’s disappearance is out of character and is being considered suspicious at this time. Police are looking for any information regarding her whereabouts, including dashcam or other surveillance video.

Missing: Billie Wynell Johnson, 30 

FILA sweater Johnson was last seen wearing

Anyone with information regarding Johnson’s whereabouts is asked to contact the EPS immediately 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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