An upcoming extradition hearing in Scotland for the individuals charged in the tragic death of a restaurateur in southwestern Ontario has prompted a new revelation following a thorough investigation by CBC News.
Recent photographs of the three suspects involved in the fatal incident, which resulted in the death of Sharif Rahman in Owen Sound, have surfaced after access to Scottish court records was granted to CBC. These images were obtained through social media profiles identified with the help of affidavits provided by Canadian law enforcement agencies. Prior to this discovery, the only available visuals of the accused individuals were low-quality police handout images.
The newly uncovered pictures depict two men, one in a blue T-shirt and the other in orange, seen running along the main street of Owen Sound in footage captured by a security camera. Additionally, a photo of a speeding grey Ford Escape, believed to be their getaway vehicle, was also obtained.
In December 2024, authorities disclosed that three arrests had been made in Edinburgh months earlier. The individuals in custody, identified as Robert Evans (25), his father Robert Busby Evans (47), and his uncle Barry Evans (54), are facing charges related to the case. Robert Evans is charged with manslaughter, while his father and uncle are accused of being accessories after the fact.
Through a comprehensive investigation, CBC News managed to trace the social media presence of the suspects, verifying their identities by cross-referencing various details such as geolocation data, family connections, and shared information like birthdays and travel history. These newly found images provide further insight into the backgrounds and actions of the accused individuals during their time in Canada.
None of the suspects have entered a plea yet, and the allegations against them have not been subjected to legal scrutiny. Despite attempts to reach out to their legal representatives and families, CBC News did not receive any responses.
The incident that led to Rahman’s tragic demise unfolded outside his restaurant in Owen Sound, where he sustained severe injuries following a dispute with a group of patrons attempting to evade payment. Robert Evans Jr. allegedly delivered the fatal blow, causing Rahman to hit his head on the pavement. Barry Evans, the uncle, is accused of aiding Evans Jr. to flee the scene and subsequently driving him to Collingwood. Robert Evans Sr., who was not present during the altercation, is also implicated for facilitating his son’s escape by purchasing an airline ticket and arranging transport to the airport.
The Evans family’s entry into Canada, under false identities as Michael and Justin Jones, was detailed in Scottish court records. Despite lacking work permits, they engaged in a cash-only business known as Total Paving, traveling across the province during the summer. The family is linked to the “traveller” community in the U.K., a group associated with driveway repair scams operating internationally.
The extradition process from the U.K. to Canada is expected to be protracted, as per Vancouver-based immigration lawyer Richard Kurland. The complexity of extradition proceedings involves diplomatic considerations, legal intricacies, and human rights protections specific to the country in question. The grieving community in Owen Sound continues to seek closure following Rahman’s tragic passing, with his widow expressing optimism that justice will prevail in due course.