Six male youths are facing serious charges following a violent, targeted assault in north Edmonton last month that police say involved the use of a dating app to lure the victim.
On March 27, 2025, officers with the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) were called to the Calder neighbourhood after reports of an assault. According to police, an adult individual had arranged a meeting through the 2SLGBTQI+ social media app Grindr. Upon arriving at the agreed-upon location, the individual was attacked by a group of youths, struck with blunt objects, and robbed. The victim’s vehicle was also found damaged nearby.
Emergency crews responded to the scene, and the victim was transported to hospital with serious injuries.
Following a detailed investigation, members of the EPS Investigative Response Team (IRT) identified several suspects and determined that the meeting had been orchestrated under false pretenses using the app. On April 17 and 18, police executed search warrants at several residences, arresting six male youths between the ages of 15 and 16.
All six face multiple charges, including aggravated assault, robbery, and mischief over $5,000.
“This use of social media to lure and assault someone is alarming and unacceptable,” says Det. Scott Rowbotham with IRT. “Given the unpredictable nature of meeting people online, we’d like to remind everyone, regardless of age, to be mindful when first meeting someone they only know through online channels. If possible, plan a location and tell a friend where you are going.”
Rowbotham also acknowledged the challenges police face when investigating crimes facilitated by digital platforms.
“Due to the borderless nature of the internet and how third-party apps interact with police, as well as limitations in law, if something does go wrong during a meeting, it can be difficult for police to obtain the information needed to investigate. If you do find yourself in a similar situation or you have been a victim of this type of situation, please contact the EPS as soon as possible.”
The EPS Hate Crimes Unit is now assisting with the investigation to determine whether the assault was motivated by hate towards the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Police believe there may be additional victims or witnesses and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted directly to the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile device. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests or charges may follow.
