Edmonton, Alberta 2026 Homicide Victim List
Edmonton police are investigating the fatal shooting of 39-year-old Hiwa Palani after an autopsy confirmed he died from gunshot wounds and ruled his death a homicide.
The shooting occurred at approximately 11:35 a.m. on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, when West Branch patrol officers responded to reports of gunfire at a business near 112 Avenue and 149 Street. When officers arrived, they found Palani suffering from serious injuries. Paramedics treated him at the scene before transporting him to hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Witnesses reported seeing a man flee the area on foot shortly after the shooting. Investigators are asking anyone who was in the area between 11 a.m. and noon on July 28, including motorists with dashcam footage, to come forward.
As the investigation continues, Edmonton Police Service homicide detectives have released photos of two vehicles believed to have been used by the suspect.
According to investigators, a grey 2009 Mazda 3 was used during the shooting before it was driven to the area of 213 Street and 108 Avenue, where it was intentionally set on fire. The suspect then allegedly switched to a red 2007 Ford Fusion, drove it to Ada Boulevard and 50 Street, and also set that vehicle ablaze before fleeing on foot into the nearby river valley.
Witnesses extinguished the fire involving the Mazda before emergency crews arrived, while Edmonton Fire Rescue Services put out the blaze involving the Ford Fusion. Police say both vehicles had visible damage to their front bumpers, as shown in the images released to the public.
Investigators continue to seek information from anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or the suspect’s movements before or after the incident.
Grey 2009 Mazda 3 set on fire at 213 Street and 108 Avenue
Damage to Mazda’s driver’s side bumper
Damaged 2007 Ford Fusion abandoned at Ada Boulevard and 50 Street
Red 2007 Ford Fusion
Investigators are asking anyone with CCTV or dashcam video in the above noted areas between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to review their footage for evidence of these vehicles or the people associated to them, and call police at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile device. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.