The Nigerian Community in Edmonton is deeply saddened by the tragic death of Mathios Arkangelo, a 28-year-old Black man, following a police-involved shooting on June 29th in Edmonton. The community extends its heartfelt condolences to Mathios’s family and friends during this difficult time.
The pain and grief experienced by the African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) communities in Edmonton and throughout Alberta are acknowledged. This incident has had a profound impact, particularly on children and young people who witnessed the event and now feel frightened and uncertain about their safety.
The Nigerian Community believes it is essential for the authorities to address this incident with transparency and accountability. They are calling for a thorough and impartial investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding Mathios’s death and to ensure that justice is served.
In support of the family’s pursuit of justice, the community urges the following actions:
1. A prompt and thorough investigation by the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT), which has received all relevant evidence and witness testimony.
2. The suspension of the officer involved during the ASIRT investigation, in order to protect the integrity of the process and uphold public trust in the justice system, as well as to ensure the safety of the public.
3. The immediate release of the autopsy report, which the community understands is complete. They are dismayed by the possibility of having to wait up to a year for this vital information.
4. Truthful acknowledgment of the facts captured in the 25-minute surveillance video, which documents the entire interaction between Mathios and the Edmonton Police Service on that day.
5. An appeal to the public to continue supporting the pursuit of justice in a peaceful and respectful manner.
The Nigerian Community emphasizes that their primary concern is securing justice for Mathios Arkangelo and ensuring the safety of all members of the community in Edmonton and Alberta. They are especially mindful of Nigerian Community members who were direct witnesses to the traumatic event, which unfolded near their homes, leaving them deeply affected. The community remains committed to fostering a society where all people can live freely and coexist without fear.
The Nigerian Community hopes that immediate action on these points will help restore trust in the system and bring reassurance to the community.
In other news, the group Justice for Mathios Arkangelo has organized a March for Mathios scheduled for tomorrow, August 17th, at 1 PM. Participants will gather at the EPS Downtown Division, located at 9620 103A Avenue NW. The group is encouraging everyone to attend and to wear white shirts in solidarity.
Watch LCCMedia’s panel here on police brutality: https://www.youtube.com/live/0Wlsm8MmPkU?si=T6mqmSG9MseTtpf0
