Calgary police continue to address incidents of gun violence
Last week, we updated the public after several organized crime investigations resulted in 10 firearms being seized and nine individuals being charged with 120 offences. Since that update, our Service has responded to three more shootings, two of which resulted in homicides.
To date this year, we have responded to 94 shootings in the city of Calgary. During the same period last year, only 54 had been reported. This level of violence continues to be a concern for us and creates a significant impact on our resources.
“Shooting investigations are complex and require resources from across the Service to collect evidence, complete forensic examinations, and identify suspects,” says Deputy Chief Chad Tawfik of the Calgary Police Service Bureau of Community Policing. “In addition to our efforts, community support and witness information are vital for us to be able to hold offenders accountable. Without community cooperation, we only have one piece of the puzzle.”
Although a vast majority of the shootings are targeted, less than 25 per cent are related to organized crime conflict. These remaining shootings, while targeted, have varying motivations that can make these incidents difficult to predict and prevent. These shootings are often the result of domestic violence, personal disputes and arguments.
Despite this, we continue to align our intelligence and investigative resources for better coordination in our effort to address gun violence, reduce victimization and enhance community safety.
Since Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022, our officers have responded to three separate and unrelated shootings. The investigations into each incident remains ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
Fatal Shooting in Evergreen
Our Homicide Unit continues to investigate the fatal shooting of Nakita BARON, 31, of Calgary, that occurred on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022. The second victim remains in hospital in stable condition.
On Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022, investigators released CCTV photos of a man believed to be involved in the incident. Anyone with information about the whereabouts of this individual is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
At this time, investigators believe that this incident was targeted, however the motivation remains under investigation.
Case #22337405/3778
Fatal Shooting in Radisson Heights
Our Homicide Unit also continues to investigate another fatal shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday, Aug. 21, 2022, in the community of Radisson Heights.
An autopsy of the victim has been scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022.
While the investigation is still in the early stages, we believe that this was a targeted shooting, however the motive remains under investigation.
Case #22337405/3778
Shooting in Penbrooke Meadows
Investigators from our Organized Crime Response Unit are investigating a shooting that occurred last night in the community of Penbrooke Meadows. The victim has since been released from hospital.
At this time, investigators believe that this shooting was targeted and as a result of organized crime conflict. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
Case #22342688
Our efforts to address gun violence rely on strong community support. If you have information that could help an investigation, such as witnessing suspicious behaviour or vehicles, please contact police. Even something small can have a great impact on an investigation.
Anyone with information about any of these incidents, or gun violence in Calgary, is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers through any of the following methods:
TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org
APP: P3 Tips