Family, friends mourn murdered Edmonton liquor store owner: ‘He’s always with us’
Posted August 12, 2026 4:22 pm.
Last Updated August 12, 2026 5:09 pm.
It was a solemn gathering in southeast Edmonton Wednesday, as family and friends mourned the tragic loss of a businessman killed on the job a week ago today.
The loved ones of Sukhjit Randhawa say they are still grappling with their new reality following the Aug. 5 homicide, struggling to accept the sudden loss of a father, son, husband, and kind-hearted member of the community.
“They’re all shocked,” said Daljit Randhawa, the victim’s brother. “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.”
BACKGROUND: Central Edmonton community mourns business owner killed in suspected liquor store robbery
Nearly 200 people gathered at the funeral home Wednesday to pay their respects to Sukhjit Randhawa, who was also known as Sunny because he was a bright light in the community.
Longtime family friend Jag Rai says he saw Randhawa as a member of his own family, remembering him as the type of person to give the shirt off his back to those in need.
“He was a person you never heard a no out of his mouth,” said Rai. “You ask him for something, he’s like, ‘Yeah let’s get it done. What do you need?’ He was always there for support. He would push you, say, ‘Hey I’m looking to do this, OK let’s get it going.’ He never held you back.”
Edmonton police say the 48-year-old was killed while working at the Connect Liquor Store on 112 Avenue and 82 Street in the Cromdale neighbourhood, just a block east of Commonwealth Stadium.
Nearby businesses and residents believe it was a robbery gone wrong.
A suspect, 22-year-old Nicholas Butler-Chowace, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection to Randhawa’s death. Authorities say Butler-Chowace was known to police.
Police have not said how Randhawa died, citing investigative reasons, only telling CityNews a weapon was used in the homicide.
Randhawa’s brother Daljit wants to honour him and keep his memory alive.
“He’s always with us,” Daljit said. “I’m trying my best until I end my life, I want to keep him here in my right hand, and try my best to keep his name all the way in front of me.”
Randhawa’s family is now waiting for the case to make its way through the courts.
Butler-Chowace is still in custody, and his next in court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 21. The allegations against him have not been tested in court.
