“This has never happened in our community … and we are just shaken by what has happened,” said Father Goitom Mengesha, reflecting the profound sorrow engulfing the Calgary Eritrean community following the tragic deaths of two children.
On May 1, 2026, a father was charged with two counts of first-degree murder after he contacted emergency services to report that he had killed his five-year-old son and three-year-old daughter. The children were discovered in a vehicle in Calgary’s northwest, leaving many in shock.
This incident marks a heartbreaking moment for a community already navigating challenges. The parents had been in a six-year common-law relationship with joint custody of the children. However, police had previously been called to their residence four times during their relationship — an unsettling backdrop that adds complexity to this tragedy.
Dozens gathered to mourn the loss, emphasizing the tight-knit nature of the Eritrean community in Calgary. Adanech Sahilie noted, “It’s really hard for mom. She doesn’t have any family members in Canada,” highlighting the isolation faced by the grieving mother.
As this tragedy unfolds, it coincides with African Vaccination Week — a time intended to promote child health across Africa. In Eritrea, vaccination coverage has reached an impressive 98%, dramatically reducing child mortality rates from 150 per 1,000 to just 35. The theme for this year’s campaign was clear: “Let Parents and the Community Work in Collaboration for Ensuring the Health of Our Children.” Yet, such themes feel distant amid personal loss.
The Calgary Police Service is continuing its investigation into this shocking case. The next steps remain uncertain as officials gather more information about the circumstances leading up to this tragic event.
