'Appalling': Canada PM Carney condemns Edmonton gurdwara attack, 2 injured

A stabbing attack left two people injured at a gurdwara in Edmonton, Canada, on Friday, prompting condemnation from Prime Minister Mark Carney and renewed concern over rising hate crimes targeting the Sikh community. The incident occurred at the Nanaksar Gurdwara around 04:49 local time, following reports of a man walking in traffic on a highway. Approximately 15 minutes later, police received calls about a stabbing inside the religious site. A 27-year-old man, previously incarcerated for assaulting a peace officer, was arrested after failing to report to his halfway house in Edmonton. Witnesses reportedly intervened and detained him before authorities arrived. According to acting inspector Eric Stewart of the Edmonton Police Service, the suspect entered the gurdwara and attempted to reach the prayer area before being confronted by staff. The confrontation escalated, resulting in two male patrons being stabbed. Both victims, aged 75 and 51, were hospitalized but remained in stable condition with non-serious injuries. The suspect, who had been released from a federal prison in Alberta on Thursday, has a documented history of violent behavior dating back to 2015. Charges against him are still pending, and police have not yet determined a motive for the attack. Investigators are examining whether the act was driven by hateful ideology. Edmonton Police Chief Warren Driechel acknowledged the growing concerns surrounding hate crimes, noting the impact of global geopolitical tensions and societal polarization. He emphasized the importance of addressing such issues directly. “These realities can’t be ignored, and we need to call them out when they happen,” Driechel stated. The World Sikh Organization of Canada described the attack as deeply troubling, highlighting its occurrence amid a rise in anti-Sikh hate incidents. The organization also reported that a copy of the Sikh scripture within the gurdwara was desecrated during the attack. Police have confirmed awareness of the desecration and are investigating further. The attack follows recent threats directed at Sikh gurdwaras in Calgary, which is approximately two hours south of Edmonton. Police there confirmed investigations into the threatening calls, which were made to two gurdwaras in the city. Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas condemned the threats, calling them “utterly disgusting.” He reiterated that gurdwaras are spaces of hospitality, generosity, and service, welcoming everyone. The Edmonton gurdwara remains closed to the public as police continue their investigation, ensuring the safety of visitors and staff. Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a strong condemnation of the attack, expressing solidarity with the injured individuals and the broader Sikh community. In a post on X, he called the incident “appalling” and stressed that no one should feel unsafe in their place of worship. Carney praised the Edmonton Police Service for their prompt response and reaffirmed support for the Sikh community. The government has pledged to address the underlying factors contributing to such acts, including the influence of hate ideologies and the need for stronger community engagement. As the investigation unfolds, authorities urge patience in determining the full scope of the attack’s motives. The closure of the gurdwara underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure security and stability within the community. With continued scrutiny on hate crimes and the potential link to global tensions, the case highlights the challenges faced by minority groups in maintaining safe environments for worship and daily life. The situation remains under active review, with law enforcement committed to uncovering all relevant details.