In a disturbing incident at the Coliseum LRT station on November 26 at 8:30 p.m., a 55-year-old woman faced a violent assault, leaving her unconscious. Two 12-year-old girls, strangers to the victim, berated and assaulted her, prompting charges of aggravated assault. This grim event sheds light on the increasing trend of violent crimes committed by youths.
The victim, now in critical condition with severe head and facial injuries, emphasises the need for community awareness. Edmonton Police are urging witnesses to come forward, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in preventing such incidents.
This assault is not an isolated case; it reflects a broader issue. Statistics Canada reports a surge in violent crimes by youths, with 90 murders committed in 2022 alone, compared to 33 the previous year. Incidents involving multiple youth perpetrators are also on the rise, signalling a concerning trend that demands attention.
The rise in “swarming” attacks across Canada further underscores the urgency of addressing this issue. Instances, such as the assault on public transit employees in Toronto by four 13-year-old boys, emphasise the need for proactive measures to ensure public safety.
As we grapple with these distressing realities, Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi expresses concern about transit safety. While charges have been laid against the young suspects, the involvement of witnesses is crucial in the pursuit of justice.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need to address youth violence collectively. Communities must unite to create safer public spaces, fostering an environment where everyone feels secure. It is only through shared responsibility and vigilance that we can curb the alarming trend of violent crimes committed by the youth.
