On June 19, 2026, an imam was assaulted outside a mosque in Edmonton, Alberta, in what police are investigating as a suspected hate crime. The incident occurred near the Al-Rashid Mosque, one of Canada's oldest mosques.
According to Edmonton Police Service, the victim, a 38-year-old imam, was leaving the mosque after evening prayers when he was approached by a suspect who made anti-Muslim remarks before physically attacking him. The imam sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a local hospital.
Police have arrested a 24-year-old man in connection with the assault. He faces charges of assault causing bodily harm and uttering threats. The investigation is ongoing, and hate crime enhancements may be applied.
Community leaders have condemned the attack, calling for increased vigilance and solidarity. The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) issued a statement urging authorities to address rising Islamophobia.
