Three Shootings in 24 Hours Raise Fresh Concerns Over Gun Violence in Calgary

Calgary, Alberta (Rajeev Sharma): Calgary police are investigating three separate shootings that occurred within a 24-hour period across the communities of Forest Lawn, Beltline, and East Village, leaving four people injured and renewing concerns about firearm-related violence in the city.

The first incident took place early Friday morning at approximately 5:50 a.m. when officers responded to reports of a man suffering from gunshot wounds near the 1200 block of 44 Street S.E. Investigators believe the victim was shot inside a residence in the 1400 block of 44 Street S.E. before seeking help at a nearby home. The victim was transported to hospital in stable condition. A man and a woman seen leaving the residence fled before police arrived, and no arrests have been made.

Later that evening, at approximately 10:55 p.m., police responded to a shooting at a residence in the 1300 block of 14 Avenue S.W. Officers found one man with serious gunshot injuries. He was initially listed in critical condition before being upgraded to stable, although his injuries are considered life-altering. Investigators later determined a second victim had also been shot and had been taken to hospital by vehicle. That victim remains in stable condition with life-altering injuries. While the driver of the vehicle was arrested on outstanding warrants, no suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the shooting.

The third incident occurred at approximately 2:40 a.m. on Saturday beneath a bridge in the 400 block of 5 Avenue S.E. Police believe two unidentified men approached a victim, demanded his belongings, and during a physical altercation one of the suspects shot him. The victim managed to seek assistance and was transported to hospital in stable condition with minor injuries. The suspects remain at large.

Acting Staff Sergeant Corey Der expressed concern over the incidents, noting that despite the recent National Day Against Gun Violence, firearm-related crimes continue to impact Calgary communities, causing fear and serious harm. He urged anyone with information or video footage related to any of the incidents to contact police as investigators continue their work.

Police say there is currently no active risk to the public in any of the three cases, and all investigations remain in their early stages.