Community gathers as family seeks answers after fatal Cromdale robbery
Nearly a week after the fatal attack at a northeast Edmonton liquor store, friends and family gathered Wednesday to mourn Sukhjit “Sunny” Randhawa, the 48-year-old owner who was killed while working on Aug. 5.
The funeral drew a large turnout — almost 200 people at a southeast Edmonton funeral home — as customers, neighbours and longtime friends came to pay respects to a man described repeatedly as generous and community‑minded. Randhawa’s brother, Daljit Randhawa, told reporters the family is struggling to process the loss.
“They’re all shocked. Three days now, they won’t eat anything, they don’t talk, they stay super quiet. We try our best, but we are not dad.”
Attendees included friends such as Jag Rai, who said Randhawa was like family and always willing to help others. Rai told the gathering Randhawa was the sort of person who would never say no to someone in need and who pushed others to succeed.
Police investigation and criminal charge
Edmonton police say the homicide occurred at the Connect Liquor Store on 112 Avenue and 82 Street in the Cromdale neighbourhood, one block east of Commonwealth Stadium. Authorities have said a weapon was used in the incident but have not released details on the cause of death for investigative reasons.
A suspect, 22‑year‑old Nicholas Butler‑Chowace, has been arrested and charged with second‑degree murder in connection with Randhawa’s death. Police have indicated Butler‑Chowace was known to them prior to the homicide.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Sukhjit “Sunny” Randhawa, 48 |
| Date of homicide | Aug. 5, 2026 |
| Location | Connect Liquor Store, 112 Ave & 82 St, Cromdale |
| Accused | Nicholas Butler‑Chowace, 22 — charged with second‑degree murder |
Local impact and concerns for small businesses
The killing has left a hole in the local business community. Neighbourhood residents and fellow merchants have described Randhawa as a fixture — the kind of proprietor who built relationships with regulars and supported people in need. The response at the funeral underscores the loss felt beyond his immediate family.
For small‑business owners in Edmonton, the incident raises questions about safety during late hours and the vulnerability of frontline workers. While police continue their investigation, the community will be watching for any updates from law enforcement and for measures that could be put in place to protect neighbourhood businesses.
- Mourning: Almost 200 attendees at the funeral on Aug. 12, 2026.
- Charge: Second‑degree murder laid against the 22‑year‑old suspect.
- Investigation: Police confirm a weapon was used but have not disclosed cause of death.
Family members said they intend to honour Randhawa’s memory and keep his legacy alive. As Edmonton police pursue their investigation, the community contends with the practical and emotional fallout from a violent incident in a neighbourhood many considered close‑knit.
The case remains before the courts and further details will be released as investigators allow.
