Attack in Edmonton

By March Ren

A violent crime spree carried out by an Edmonton man is being investigated as a possible act of terrorism.

The man drove a speeding white Chevrolet Malibou through a traffic barricade striking an EPS  officer who was working traffic control duties. According to police the man jumped out of the van, stabbed the officer with a knife and ran away.

Several hours later, a U-Haul truck was pulled over at a road stop and asked for a driver’s license and police recognized the driver as the same man who was driving the Malibou before.

Police say the truck sped off immediately and was chased by police to downtown Edmonton, where the driver allegedly attempted to hit pedestrians on cross walks and in alleys.

Police report four people were struck and injured and taken to a hospital.

The driver was captured after the U-Haul truck flipped over on Jasper Avenue.

“Currently, we believe this is an individual who acted alone, although the investigation is in its early stages,” said Chief Rod Knecht. “We are urging all Edmontonians to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Please contact police immediately if you see or hear anything out of the ordinary or unusual.”

The EPS and the RCMP Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) are investigating the crime spree acts of terrorism under Section 83.2 of the Criminal Code of Canada.

Chief Knecht also asks citizens to remain vigilant and observant of surroundings. If you notice any unusual activities contact police as soon as possible.