Leslie Babajid Cole, Calgary AB, Shooting, Death Obituary: In Loving Memory Leslie Babajid Of
Authorities in Calgary are continuing to investigate a deadly shooting outside a grocery store in the city’s northeast, a violent incident police believe was a targeted attack connected to organized crime activity. The victim has been identified as Leslie Babajid Cole, a 35-year-old Calgary man known to law enforcement.
According to investigators, the shooting occurred around 8 p.m. on May 11 outside the North Hill Co-op located in the 520 block of 16 Avenue N.E. Emergency responders arrived after reports of gunfire erupted in the busy commercial area and discovered Cole suffering from severe injuries. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his wounds.
Police say a second man, believed to be an innocent bystander, was also struck during the gunfire. Investigators stated that the man was attempting to escape the area when he was caught in the crossfire. He remains hospitalized in stable condition as he continues recovering from his injuries.
The Calgary Police Service homicide unit has since assumed control of the investigation and described the shooting as deliberate and targeted. Authorities believe the incident may be tied to organized crime, although officials have not publicly released additional details regarding possible suspects, affiliations, or motives connected to the attack.
As of Tuesday, no arrests had been announced, and investigators continue working to identify and locate those responsible. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or captured surveillance footage, cellphone video, or dashcam recordings from the surrounding area to come forward and assist with the investigation.
The bold nature of the attack, which unfolded near a busy shopping area during the evening hours, has left many residents and business owners shaken and concerned about public safety. In the aftermath of the shooting, police increased their presence in the area while detectives gathered evidence and interviewed witnesses.
Officials say community cooperation may be critical in helping move the investigation forward. Anyone with information related to the shooting is encouraged to contact the Calgary Police Service homicide tip line or submit anonymous information through Crime Stoppers.
As the investigation continues, the Calgary community remains unsettled by the violence, while loved ones of Leslie Babajid Cole mourn a life lost in a tragic and public act of gun violence.