Canada: Armed Intruder Strikes Chaos in Edmonton’s City Hall: Rapid Response Ensures Safety

Edmonton’s city hall was thrown into chaos when a heavily armed man randomly fired a long gun, shattering glass in the building. The incident, which occurred around 10:30 a.m., forced the building into lockdown, interrupting a public committee meeting.

Police Chief Dale McFee revealed that the armed individual entered city hall through the parkade with a long gun capable of firing multiple rounds. Alongside the gun, the suspect carried several Molotov cocktails, one of which was thrown from the second floor to the first floor, causing a small fire in the main atrium.

An unarmed security guard, known as a commissionaire, initially detained the suspect, enabling the rapid response of police officers and city hall security. Chief McFee praised the commissionaire’s actions, emphasizing their significance in preventing potential harm. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, is expected to face charges. Chief McFee noted that the individual acted alone, and police believe there is no further threat. The tactical and bomb units cleared city hall, confirming no additional explosives were present.

Notably, a Grade 1 class was present in city hall during the shooting, underscoring the potential severity of the incident. The CBC reporter present at a committee meeting heard three loud bangs from the atrium, prompting discussions to halt. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi and other attendees were temporarily locked in a room as emergency procedures were followed.

Ward Dene Coun. Aaron Paquette, who was present during the incident, described the initial confusion, thinking the sounds might be unrelated. Security later informed them of actual shots fired, prompting the evacuation of city hall.

City officials announced the closure of city hall to the public until further notice. In a video statement, Mayor Sohi assured that security professionals would guide the next steps for affected city staff. He expressed solidarity with the families impacted by the traumatic event and emphasized the availability of support through the employee and family assistance program.

The city manager’s office released a statement, characterizing the shooting as an unfortunate and unusual incident in the typically welcoming and open space of city hall. The investigation is ongoing, and Mayor Sohi refrained from providing further details at this time.

In summary, a heavily armed individual sparked chaos in Edmonton’s city hall, firing a long gun and throwing Molotov cocktails. Swift action by a security guard prevented injuries, and the city is now grappling with the aftermath, with city hall closed to the public as the investigation unfolds.