Scott Guterson from the Calgary Police homicide unit said the woman acted responsibly, including bringing her father along for the property viewing. CBC
A woman in her 30s continues to recover after a violent incident inside a northwest Calgary home that left a man dead. Police say the woman acted in self-defence and will not face charges.
Investigators believe the man, 48-year-old Shahbaz Ahmed, lured the woman to a house in the Edgemont community on Jan. 9. He reportedly claimed the visit involved a property showing. The woman brought her father with her for safety.
Attack unfolded inside the home
According to Calgary Police Service, the father and daughter became separated while inside the large residence. Acting Staff Sgt. Scott Guterson said Ahmed attacked the woman without warning during that time.
The woman fought back and managed to escape the home. She alerted nearby neighbours, who called 911. Police arrived shortly after and found Ahmed in medical distress. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
The woman suffered injuries and went to hospital in stable condition. Her father was not hurt and witnessed the final moments of the attack, police said.
Police praise victim’s actions
“She did everything right,” Guterson said. “This is a great example of someone who is completely innocent and had to suffer a very traumatic incident at the hands of a perpetrator.”
Police described the case as one of the clearest examples of self-defence they have seen. Investigators determined that the woman acted to protect her life. As a result, authorities classified Ahmed’s death as a non-culpable homicide and will not lay charges.
“An incident of this nature is extremely rare and deeply unsettling for the victim, her family and all Calgarians,” Guterson said. “The victim’s actions undoubtedly saved her life.”
Background on the suspect
Police confirmed Ahmed was known to them. Court records show he faced several criminal charges last year, including two counts of assault with a weapon. Courts acquitted him on those charges in February and again in October.
Ahmed also faced charges related to possession of a weapon dangerous to the public, uttering threats, and failing to comply with a release order. Courts acquitted him on those counts as well.
Police said Ahmed and the woman communicated in the months leading up to the incident about renting property. Investigators confirmed the two did not share a domestic relationship.
Law supports right to self-defence
“Canadian law says we’re allowed to protect ourselves. The citizen has the same rights to defending themselves as a police officer does,” Guterson said.
He added that the woman’s actions likely prevented more serious injuries.
Police said the woman’s family continues to support her as she recovers. Victim support teams also remain involved. An autopsy took place on Jan. 13. Police will not release further details out of respect for the woman’s privacy.
