Charge laid after February altercation

One man has been charged after an altercation outside of a place of worship in February.

On Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at around 6 p.m., a religious event was being hosted at a place of worship, located in the 400 block of Meridian Road S.E. Ahead of the scheduled event, approximately 12 people arrived to protest the gathering in light of recent geopolitical events. It is believed that people associated with the centre then exited the building and verbally threatened the protestors before another man driving an SUV steered toward the group of protestors, striking one person.

The victim suffered minor injuries as a result of being struck by the vehicle.

Due to the intersection of political and religious elements, our Hate Crime Prevention Team launched an investigation into the incident.

After a thorough investigation including witness accounts and CCTV footage, one person has been charged.

Payman ESMAEILI, 49, of Calgary, has been charged with one count of assault with a weapon.

He will next appear in court on Friday, May 22, 2026.

Whether hate motivation was a factor in the altercation remains under investigation.

“We recognize that this incident is closely connected to deeply felt political and human rights tensions internationally, and that members of our community hold strong and differing views,” says Calgary Police Service acting Supt. Cory Ma. “Our role is not to take sides in political disputes, however when the incident involves threats, violence or intimidation, it is our responsibility to conduct a fair and objective investigation.”

Anyone with information about this incident 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

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