Further information about arrests is being provided in relation to a homicide investigation being conducted by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and Owen Sound Police Service (OSPS).
The investigation started when Sharifur RAHMAN, a 44-year-old resident and businessman of Owen Sound, was assaulted on 2nd Avenue East in Owen Sound on August 17, 2023, around 9:20 p.m. He succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased on August 24, 2023. Police discovered that the suspects linked to the assault had left the country, prompting OPP and OSPS to collaborate with international partners to coordinate the arrests overseas.
Due to the nature of the investigation and the international element, the information was sealed in an effort to support the apprehension of the accused. On August 15, 2024, the OPP and OSPS released limited information that arrests have been made. As the information was sealed and one suspect was outstanding, further information could not be released.
Two individuals, both citizens of the United Kingdom (UK), have been arrested and charged with Criminal Code offences:
- Robert EVANS, 24 years old, has been charged with Manslaughter, contrary to section 236(b).
- Robert Busby EVANS, 47 years old, has been charged with Accessory after the Fact to Commit Indictable Offence, contrary to section 463(a).
On October 29, 2024, Barry EVANS, 54 years old of the UK, was arrested and charged with Accessory after the Fact to Commit Indictable Offence, contrary to section 463(a).
The individuals, who were in Canada on visistors’ visas, are currently in the UK and are before the courts in relation to extradition. There are no timelines available for the extradition of the accused individuals.
The investigation is continuing by the OSPS under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, with the assistance of the OPP West Region Crime Units, OPP Forensic Identification Services and the OPP Regional Support Team, in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario and the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service. Assistance was also provided by police services in West Grey and Hanover, the RCMP, INTERPOL Ottawa Fugitive Apprehension Support Team (FAST) and UK law enforcement members from the National Extradition Unit of the National Crime Agency and Police Scotland.
The OSPS and the OPP would once again like to extend their gratitude to the Owen Sound community and neighbouring jurisdictions for their support and valuable tips. We acknowledge the significant impact this case has had on the community and sincerely appreciate everyone’s patience as we continue our thorough and comprehensive investigation.
“This complex investigation was successfully resolved thanks to the dedicated coordination and hard work of multiple police services and partners. This case underscores the critical importance of strong relationships among local and international law enforcement agencies. This further reaffirms our commitment to exploring every possible angle and we are pleased we are able to hold those responsible accountable for this terrible crime. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the family and community for their patience and support throughout this investigation,” said OPP Deputy Commissioner Marty Kearns.
Owen Sound Police Chief Craig Ambrose added that, “We are pleased to provide some long-awaited insight into the investigation and the court process in order for our community to continue to heal. The quality and dedication of the members of the investigative team that was assembled left no doubt that arrests and charges would result.”
Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
