Edmonton police have charged one individual following a robbery during a Facebook Marketplace transaction where bear spray was used as a weapon. The incident occurred on July 8, 2026, according to a news release from the Edmonton Police Service.
Details of the Incident
Police responded to a report of a robbery in progress in the area of 118 Avenue and 82 Street around 1:30 p.m. The victim had arranged to meet a potential buyer to sell an item listed on Facebook Marketplace. Upon arrival, the suspect allegedly sprayed the victim with bear spray and fled with the item. The victim sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
Officers located the suspect nearby a short time later. A 35-year-old man was arrested and charged with robbery, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and assault with a weapon. He was taken into custody and is scheduled to appear in court.
Police Warning About Online Transactions
“This incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with meeting strangers for online transactions,” said Edmonton Police Service spokesperson Sgt. Eric Stewart in a statement. “We encourage the public to use safe exchange zones, such as those located at police stations, and to avoid meeting in isolated areas.”
The Edmonton Police Service operates a designated online transaction exchange zone at its downtown headquarters, equipped with 24-hour surveillance. Similar zones are available at other police stations across the city.
Broader Context
Bear spray has been used in a number of violent incidents across Canada recently. In a separate case, a 12-year-old boy was charged after allegedly attacking a child with bear spray stolen from a Canadian Tire store. The Edmonton robbery underscores ongoing concerns about the weaponization of bear spray, which is legally sold for defense against wildlife but is increasingly misused in urban settings.
Police advise anyone conducting in-person transactions from online marketplaces to take precautions: bring a friend, meet in well-lit public areas, and notify someone of the meeting details. If a deal seems suspicious, walk away.
