Two people in custody after protest causes gridlock near downtown Edmonton
Posted October 12, 2025 2:13 pm.
Edmonton police say two people were taken into custody during a protest on Saturday that caused a traffic gridlock, including blocking emergency services.
EPS says around 5:15 p.m., officers received numerous complaints reporting a road blockade near River Valley Road and 105 Street.
It is believed that the blockade was caused by around 50-100 people, with police noting that several of whom were wearing masks.
Reports also indicated that the protesters were allegedly becoming agitated, which raised a safety concern for drivers and pedestrians in the area.
Police note the gridlock extended as far south as Walterdale Bridge and Walterdale Hill.
Officers responded to the scene and were able to establish contact with the group and were able to take action to ensure the safety of the public, which included working to re-establish access for emergency vehicles by setting up road barricades and restricting movement along critical routes.
By 6:10 p.m., EPS had managed to restore limited traffic flow and had a designated lane for emergency vehicles. Additionally, the blockade had been cleared.
“The Edmonton Police Service is committed to upholding the right to lawful protest. However, impeding roadways and obstructing access for emergency services poses significant risks to public safety and cannot be tolerated,” says A/Insp. Ian Brooks of the EPS Duty Officers Branch. “The EPS will continue to respond swiftly to restore order and ensure those responsible for compromising public safety are held accountable.”
Two people who are believed to be responsible for causing the blockade were taken into custody, and charges are pending.
Police say they are still investigating the matter and are asking if anyone has any information, contact investigators at 780-423-4567 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
