Morning prayers turn tragic at Canada's Nanaksar Gurdwara after man stabs patrons, PM Mark Carney condemns attack

Morning prayers at Canada's Nanaksar Gurdwara in Edmonton turned tragic on Friday after an armed individual attacked two men. Police arrived at 4:49 AM to find the suspect walking in traffic, and by 5:05 AM, they reported an active stabbing inside the temple near 14 Street and Horsehill Road. The suspect, aged 27, had a history of violent offenses and had recently been released from a federal facility after serving a sentence for aggravated assault and assaulting a peace officer.

The two male victims, aged 75 and 51, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated by Emergency Medical Services before being transported to the hospital. Witnesses apprehended the suspect on-site, and he was handed over to Northeast Branch patrol officers at 5:10 AM. The Edmonton Police Service's Investigative Response Team is investigating the incident alongside the Hate Crimes Unit to determine if the attack was motivated by hate.

EPS Chief Warren Driechel expressed relief that the incident did not result in fatalities, acknowledging the significant trauma experienced by the victims and their community. He emphasized the department's commitment to community safety, stating that violence has no place in their city. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the injured and the wider community.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also condemned the attack, vowing to defend the right of individuals to feel safe in their communities and places of worship.