Edmonton's Emergency Evacuation: Tragedy Strikes as Security Guard is Killed

In a shocking turn of events just days before Christmas, Edmonton city officials have ordered the evacuation of an apartment building where a tragic incident claimed the life of a security guard earlier this month. The decision comes amid alarming safety concerns that have escalated to the point where continued occupancy poses an imminent risk to residents.

The building, located at 10603 107 Ave., was home to over 60 residents, including approximately two dozen children. City authorities stated that the closure is effective immediately, emphasizing that this decision was not made lightly. They explained that they are partnering with the Alberta government and the Canadian Red Cross to provide immediate temporary housing and transportation for those affected by the evacuation.

According to city officials, the closure stems from advice provided by the Residential Inspection Safety Compliance Team, who have been monitoring the property for several years. Despite numerous inspections—over 60 in the past five years—25 citations were issued, indicating persistent and unresolved safety and maintenance issues. The problems include alleged neglect of maintenance, active pest infestations, and other hazardous conditions that have accumulated over time.

The gravity of the situation was underscored tragically on December 6, when Harshandeep Singh, a 20-year-old security guard originally from northern India, was shot and killed while on patrol in the building just three days into his job. Two individuals have since been charged with first-degree murder in connection with this appalling crime. Friends of Singh have expressed their grief, highlighting his recent move to Canada and the promising future he had hoped to build.

In a statement, city officials conveyed their commitment to ensuring the safety of residents, explaining that recent information regarding the state of the building led them to believe that conditions had not improved since Singh's death. "The urgency of the safety concerns left no alternative but to close and evacuate the residences," they stated.

While the majority of the building is designated for residential use and will be closed, commercial businesses on the ground floor remain unaffected. The city has vowed to keep monitoring the situation closely, ensuring that the owner of the building addresses all listed safety concerns before any possibility of reopening for residents is considered.

As investigations continue and the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the City of Edmonton reinforces its commitment to public safety, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.