TESFATSION family statement

We are sharing the below statement and photos on behalf of Temesgen TESFATSION’s family. Temesgen was the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred at the Ambassador Restaurant and Bar last month. No additional investigative details are available at this time. 

"We are completely overwhelmed with grief at the sudden and tragic loss of our brother, Temesgen TESFATSION, who was tragically killed last month.

This was a senseless killing and we know Temesgen was not a target and that he was and remains an innocent man.

There are not enough words to describe the loving and caring person Temesgen was. Our brother was remarkable in so many ways, he lived his life to the fullest and he touched so many people.

Those who knew Temesgen remember him as a humble and caring person. He was a devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He was considered a father-figure to his nieces and nephews and thought of by many as a true family man.

Temesgen was his mother’s “right hand” and was always by her side. He helped raise his younger siblings and started working at a young age, helping out wherever he could. Growing up, he was a good student and a hard-working young man.

Temesgen came to Canada in 2019 and worked hard to build a life here in preparation for his family in Ethiopia to join him. During his time here in Canada, he was studying to become a certified heavy-duty mechanic, with his graduation ceremony set to take place on today, Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022. He also obtained his Class 4 commercial license and completed his air-brake program certification in hopes of becoming a commercial truck driver.

Shortly before he died, Temesgen had purchased a plane ticket to travel back home so he could be with his family to celebrate his son’s first birthday, whom he had yet to meet, and accompany his family on their trip to their new home in Canada.

Temesgen is survived by his wife and two sons, his mother, his two sisters, nephews, nieces and numerous family friends and community members.

Temesgen was an active member within his community and served as a youth soccer coach, encouraging his own nieces and nephews to become involved in the sport.

He would seek out those who needed help without asking. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he would seek out those who were struggling, often taking it upon himself to shop for and deliver groceries and other supplies for those who were in isolation or who couldn’t access other supports.

Our brother always said how important it was to see the humanity in everyone. He will be remembered as a responsible, caring, goal-oriented, determined, and compassionate person.

At this time, we want to express our sincerest gratitude to everyone for their love and support and helping us through this incredibly difficult time."

Media Interviews

The TESFATSION family will be available for media interviews later today during a community celebration of life for Temesgen at:

Noah’s Café
1919 31 Street S.E.
Time: 7:30 p.m., today,  Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022

This is the only time the family will be able to speak to the media. Meron TESFATSION, the younger sister of Temesgen, will be available for interviews.  

For media who are interested in setting up an interview, please contact the CPS Media Line at 403-428-7979 during regular business hours to pre-schedule an interview.