Two stabbed at Edmonton Sikh temple; suspect arrested, hate motive under investigation
Nanaksar Gurdwara attack Friday morning injures two men; World Sikh Organization calls for probe into bias
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Two people were stabbed during an attack at Nanaksar Gurdwara temple in northeast Edmonton on Friday morning, with Edmonton police investigating whether hate or bias motivated the incident.
Edmonton police received a 911 call at 5:08 a.m. Friday. Officers responded to the reported stabbing at the temple near 14 Street and Horsehill Road and arrested an adult male suspect on scene. Paramedics treated two adult men for non-life-threatening injuries.
The World Sikh Organization of Canada said an intruder entered the gurdwara and attacked people inside during early morning prayers. Reports also indicate Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, a Sikh scripture, was attacked and damaged during the incident.
WSO President Danish Singh said the organization is deeply troubled by the attack but "unfortunately we cannot say that we are surprised," citing a documented rise in anti-Sikh hate across Canada. The organization is calling on Edmonton police to investigate whether hate or bias played a role and is urging governments to strengthen security measures at places of worship.
The gurdwara was closed to the public as police investigation continued. The incident comes amid several recent incidents involving Alberta's Sikh community, including threatening calls to two Calgary gurdwaras and an assault on a Sikh truck driver at an Edmonton Walmart earlier this month.
What evidence, if any, indicates the attack was motivated by anti-Sikh hate or bias?
What is the suspect's identity and criminal history?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
When did the stabbing at Nanaksar Gurdwara occur?
Edmonton police received a 911 call at 5:08 a.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026, reporting a stabbing at Nanaksar Gurdwara temple near 14 Street and Horsehill Road in northeast Edmonton.
How many people were injured in the attack?
Two adult men were stabbed and treated by paramedics for non-life-threatening injuries at Nanaksar Gurdwara.
Was a suspect arrested?
Yes, Edmonton police arrested an adult male suspect on scene at Nanaksar Gurdwara.
What is being investigated as a possible motive?
Edmonton police are investigating whether hate or bias motivated the attack at Nanaksar Gurdwara, with the World Sikh Organization calling for a formal probe into those factors.
