A Calgary man is facing charges after an SUV was allegedly driven into a group of protesters gathered outside a place of worship earlier this year.
Police say the incident happened around 6 p.m. on Feb. 7, as a religious event was set to begin at a centre near Meridian Road SE and Centre Avenue.
About a dozen people had assembled to protest the gathering, which police say was connected to ongoing geopolitical tensions abroad.
According to investigators, people associated with the centre came outside and allegedly started threatening the protesters. Moments later, a man driving an SUV steered toward the group and struck one person, according to police.
The victim sustained minor injuries.
Because the confrontation involved both political and religious elements, the Calgary Police Service Hate Crime Prevention Team took over the investigation.
“We recognize that this incident is closely connected to deeply felt political and human rights tensions internationally, and that members of our community hold strong and differing views,” said acting CPS Supt. Cory Ma in a statement. “Our role is not to take sides in political disputes, however when the incident involves threats, violence or intimidation, it is our responsibility to conduct a fair and objective investigation.”
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One man has been charged after an altercation outside of a place of worship in February.
???? On Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at around 6 p.m., a religious event was being hosted at a place of worship, located in the 400 block of Meridian Road S.E. Ahead of the… pic.twitter.com/prYnk6atjj
— Calgary Police (@CalgaryPolice) April 9, 2026
After reviewing witness statements and security footage, officers charged 49‑year‑old Payman Esmaeili of Calgary with one count of assault with a weapon. He is scheduled to appear in court in May.
Police say they are still determining whether hate motivation played any role in the altercation.
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Calgary police at 403‑266‑1234 or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers.