Security guard dead after parkade fight in downtown Edmonton

Update: In a March 20, 2024 news release, Edmonton police said the death of the security guard had been deemed non-criminal by investigators. 

The Edmonton Medical Examiner completed an autopsy on the 58-year-old man in February, police said.  Further testing and investigation were required but investigators have since determined the cause of death, police said.

The 30-year-old man arrested in the altercation has since been charged with mischief under $5000, possession of break-in instruments and fail to comply with probation order.

Edmonton police are investigating the death of a male security guard after a fight at a downtown parkade.

In a news release, the Edmonton Police Service said patrol officers responded to a report that a man was fighting with a security guard in a parkade in the area of 101st Street and 102nd Avenue at 5:50 a.m. Tuesday.

Officers found the security guard in medical distress. He was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Police are still looking for the suspect.

Security company GardaWorld confirmed the security guard was an employee.

"We are deeply saddened by recent events involving one of our team members in Edmonton," GardaWorld said in a statement to CBC News.

"Our focus remains on supporting our people, our teams and all loved ones impacted."

EPS Deputy Chief Devin Laforce said the security guard was simply doing his job.

"As much as we're trying and as much as we're regaining some ground in making downtown safer, it still can be a dangerous place," Laforce said in an interview with CBC's Edmonton AM.

The 102nd Street Parkade is managed by Epic Investment Services. The company confirmed to CBC that GardaWorld provides security for the property.

"Our thoughts and condolences go out to their family and friends during this incredibly difficult time," a spokesperson for Epic Investment Services said.

"We are thankful to all members of our dedicated team who work tirelessly day in and day out to ensure the safety and well-being of our tenants and our properties."

Homicide detectives have taken over the investigation and are combing through video surveillance from the area, EPS said in its news release.

An autopsy has been scheduled for Thursday.

Alberta Occupational Health and Safety is also investigating the death.

"It is always tragic when a worker dies on the job," an OHS spokesperson said in a statement.