Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Strathcona County are actively searching for a suspect following a disturbing assault during an online marketplace transaction. The incident, which involved the use of a substance similar to bear spray, occurred in the Edmonton area and has prompted a public appeal for information.
Details of the Marketplace Assault
According to investigators, the event unfolded on December 24, 2025. A seller, who had arranged to meet a potential buyer through the popular platform Facebook Marketplace, was attacked. The suspect utilized what police have described as a "bear spray-type substance" against the victim during the encounter.
The Strathcona County RCMP detachment is leading the investigation. They have released details about the incident in hopes that members of the public can help identify the individual responsible. While the physical description of the suspect was not fully detailed in the initial release, the nature of the attack has raised significant concerns about safety during peer-to-peer sales.
Ongoing Police Investigation
The RCMP's appeal underscores the risks associated with online marketplace meetings. Police are analyzing all available evidence and following leads to locate the suspect. The use of an irritant spray in a confined or personal transaction setting is treated as a serious assault.
Authorities have not released the condition of the victim but confirmed the incident was reported and is being thoroughly investigated. The timing of the attack, on Christmas Eve, adds a layer of concern for community safety during the holiday period.
Safety Reminders for Online Transactions
This incident serves as a stark reminder for individuals conducting transactions initiated online. Police across Canada, including the RCMP, routinely recommend several safety precautions:
- Meet in a well-lit, public place, such as a police station parking lot or a designated safe exchange zone.
- Avoid inviting strangers to your home or agreeing to go to theirs.
- Bring a friend or family member with you to the meeting.
- Trust your instincts; if a deal or situation feels suspicious, cancel the transaction.
- Inform someone you trust of the meeting details, including the time, location, and the identity of the person you are meeting.
The Strathcona County RCMP continue their search and encourage anyone with information about this specific attack or the suspect involved to contact them immediately. The investigation remains active as Mounties work to apprehend the individual.
