Edmonton Sikh temple stabbing: 2 injured, suspect arrested

A man was apprehended after a stabbing attack inside Nanaksar Gurdwara in Edmonton early Friday morning, injuring two worshippers. The violent episode began at about 05:00 local time, with police receiving the first call at 04:49 and following up with the incident shortly thereafter.

While the wounded 75‑year‑old and 51‑year‑old men are in stable condition, police have yet to disclose further details about their identities. The suspect, 27, is a known criminal whose record includes violent offenses dating back to 2015 and who had recently been released from a federal prison the day before the attack.

Police are investigating whether the attack was motivated by hateful ideology. The incident has intensified concerns about hate crimes, with the World Sikh Organization describing the act as deeply troubling against a backdrop of increasing anti‑Sikh hostility across Canada.

Officials have closed the Gurdwara to the public while the investigation continues. Edmonton Police chief Warren Driechel emphasized the importance of addressing national tensions locally and urged patience as the motive behind the attack is determined.

The World Sikh Organization also reported that a Sikh scripture inside the temple was desecrated during the attack and said police are looking into that claim. The Calgary mayor condemned similar threats made near his own city as outright disgusting and reaffirmed the welcoming nature of gurdwaras.