Man in custody, charged following two deaths in Chinatown on Wednesday

Police are continuing to investigate a pair of deaths in Chinatown Wednesday evening.

Edmonton police were called to an auto body shop near 106 Ave. and 98 St. around 4 p.m. for reports of an assault.

When police arrived, they say they found a 64-year-old man suffering from severe injuries. The person was reportedly treated on scene before being taken to hospital in critical and unstable condition. On Thursday, the 64-year-died from his injuries.

EPS say as they were canvassing the area for potential witnesses of the assault, they were alerted to another scene on 105 Ave. and 98 St.

At the second scene, a 61-year-old man was found, also suffering from severe injuries. He was pronounced dead at scene.

Police have taken a 36-year-old man into custody, who is believed to be the individual involved in the assaults based on alleged eye-witness statements.

The suspect was charged Friday night with two counts of second-degree murder.

Police do not believe the accused knew either of the victims.

WATCH: Two dead after violent attack in Edmonton’s Chinatown

“I am devastated to hear of the violent attacks that happened in Edmonton’s Chinatown last night, leaving two-valued community members dead. I am sending my sincere condolences to both affected families, and I strongly condemn these acts of senseless violence,” said Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi.

“I have heard Chinatown’s calls for increased safety measures and will be working with the community and EPS to find immediate solutions, following my motion that passed on Monday to allocate funding and resources to Chinatown and the downtown core.

“To those affected by these tragedies, please reach out to Canadian Mental Health Services Canada for support if you require it. My heart is with Chinatown community members as they grieve, and I encourage Edmontonians to hold space for one another through this difficult time.”

An autopsy for the 61-year-old is scheduled for Friday.

Anyone with additional information about the assault is asked to contact EPS at 780-423-4567 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.