Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has laid a serious charge and is appealing to the public for help as they investigate a homicide in the city's Chinatown district. The development marks a significant step in the case, which has prompted investigators to search for a key individual captured on surveillance footage.
Charge Laid in Connection with Fatal Incident
On December 17, 2025, EPS announced that a second-degree murder charge has been laid in connection with the death. While the name of the accused was not immediately released in the initial report, the laying of the charge indicates that investigators believe they have identified a suspect responsible for the killing.
The homicide occurred in the Chinatown area, a vibrant and historic neighbourhood in central Edmonton. The specific location and time of the incident, as well as the identity of the victim, were details that authorities were working to confirm and release to the public as the investigation progressed.
Police Release Footage, Seek Pivotal Witness
In a crucial move to advance the investigation, EPS has publicly released surveillance footage. The video shows an individual whom detectives are eager to locate and interview. Investigators believe this person may have vital information that could assist the case.
The sought-after witness is described as wearing a puffy jacket with the hood up, as seen in the footage released by police. The EPS is urging this person, or anyone who can identify them, to come forward immediately to help piece together the events leading to the homicide.
Appeal for Public Assistance
The appeal for the witness underscores the importance of community cooperation in solving serious crimes. Edmonton police are asking anyone with information, whether about the individual in the jacket or the incident itself, to contact the EPS Homicide Section or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
This case unfolds amidst other major news in Alberta, including a massive 80-to-100-car pileup that closed Highway 2 between Airdrie and Calgary due to a severe winter storm, which also caused flight cancellations at Edmonton International Airport. However, the Chinatown homicide remains a distinct and active priority for city police.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
The laying of a second-degree murder charge is a serious legal action that suggests prosecutors believe the killing was intentional but not premeditated, or occurred during the commission of another violent crime. The case will now proceed through the judicial system.
Meanwhile, the search for the witness continues. The EPS's decision to publicize the surveillance image is a common tactic used to generate leads from the public. The outcome of this appeal could be instrumental in providing further context and evidence for the prosecution's case.
As with all active investigations, police are likely continuing to gather forensic evidence, interview other potential witnesses, and build a comprehensive timeline of the events. The community awaits further updates as both the legal process and the investigative work move forward.
