A man wanted in connection with a shooting at West Edmonton Mall in August 2023 that injured three people and triggered a lockdown has been added to BOLO’s “Canada’s 25 Most Wanted” list.Canada-wide warrants have been issued for 24-year-old Leron Andrew John, who is accused of multiple firearms offences, including discharging a firearm with intent, reckless discharging of a firearm, possession of a prohibited firearm with ammunition, and altering a firearm’s serial number.The incident occurred on August 21, 2023, around 7:40 p.m., when an exchange of gunfire broke out in a parkade at the mall. Police reported that four males exiting the mall were confronted by a group in a white SUV, leading to the altercation. Three people were injured with non-life-threatening wounds and later hospitalized. A handgun was recovered inside the mall.Investigators believe the shooting was targeted. The event caused significant disruption, including a lockdown of West Edmonton Mall while the police Tactical Unit ensured the facility was secure.“This was a brazen outdoor shooting that took place at one of the world’s busiest shopping malls during daylight hours,” said Staff Sgt. Eric Stewart of the Edmonton Police Service Guns and Gangs Section. “Numerous civilian vehicles were struck, and a stray bullet traveled five blocks, hitting a parked vehicle in a residential area near playgrounds and a school.”John, described as a 5-ft. 6-ins., black male, 125 lbs. with black hair and brown eyes, has ties to Edmonton and the Northwest Territories. He is also wanted for other firearm and drug offences in Fort Resolution, NWT.The BOLO program, which works alongside police to locate high-priority fugitives, added John to its 2024 Most Wanted list.Authorities warn that John may be armed and is considered dangerous. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged not to approach him and to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.
