Sharif Rahman, 44, died from his injuries sustained in an attack outside The Curry House. (Facebook photo)
The OPP and Owen Sound Police say “arrests have been made” in relation to the homicide investigation into Sharif Rahman’s death.
A joint news release issued by both police services Thursday morning confirmed “arrests have been made” on July 30, but didn’t offer any further information about how many people were taken into custody or if any formal charges have been laid.
“Due to the complexity of this ongoing investigation and to protect its integrity and potential court proceedings, the OPP and OSPS are unable to comment further at this time,” the release from the OPP and Owen Sound Police says.
An OPP spokesperson was contacted, but also couldn’t comment further: “We will provide updates as they become available with further information.”
Rahman was assaulted outside his restaurant The Curry House on 2nd Avenue East in downtown Owen Sound on Aug. 17, 2023 and died one week later — on Aug. 24, 2023 — from injuries he suffered. He was 44-years-old, and left behind a wife and a young daughter.
There was an outpouring of support for Rahman’s family in wake of the incident. Vigil walks were held in Owen Sound. An online fundraiser brought in more than $250,000. Hundreds lined the streets for his funeral. And a sense of sadness and anger over Rahman’s death lingered in the community for weeks after the August 2023 incident.
Thursday’s joint police press release confirming arrests is the first major update in the homicide investigation into Rahman’s death since Owen Sound Police said last summer they were searching for three male suspects, and released grainy photos of two of them, as well as an image of a vehicle of interest.
“The OSPS and the OPP thank the Owen Sound community for their support and valuable tips provided. We recognize the significant impact this case has had on the community and we sincerely appreciate everyone’s patience as we continue to conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation,” the OPP and Owen Sound Police say in a statement.