An extradition hearing is scheduled to commence in Scotland for the individuals accused in the tragic death of a restaurateur in southwestern Ontario in August 2023. A recent investigation by CBC News has unveiled fresh details in the case. New photographs of the three suspects involved in the killing of Sharif Rahman in Owen Sound have surfaced following CBC’s access to Scottish court records and the utilization of information from affidavits provided by Canadian law enforcement. Previously, only blurry police images had provided glimpses of the accused individuals linked to Rahman’s demise.
In December 2024, authorities announced the arrest of three suspects in Edinburgh, with little information disclosed besides their names and ages. The accused trio—Robert Evans (25), his father Robert Busby Evans (47), and his uncle Barry Evans (54)—are currently detained in Scotland awaiting the extradition hearing set for October 20 at the request of Canada. Robert Evans faces a manslaughter charge, while his father and uncle are charged as accessories after the fact.
The CBC News inquiry delved into identifying the suspects through social media profiles, cross-referencing details like birthdays and vacations, and geolocating photos. These newly discovered images shed additional light on the men’s activities in Canada and their return to the UK. None of the accused individuals have entered a plea, and the allegations against them have yet to be tested in court. Despite attempts to reach out to their legal representatives and families, no responses were received.
The tragic incident unfolded outside Rahman’s restaurant in Owen Sound, where first responders found him severely injured. Rahman succumbed to his injuries a week later in a London hospital. Allegedly, a group of patrons at The Curry House attempted to evade payment, leading to a confrontation with Rahman outside the establishment. Witness accounts suggest that Robert Evans Jr. delivered the fatal blow, resulting in Rahman’s head hitting the pavement. Barry Evans, the uncle, is accused of aiding Evans Jr.’s escape and driving him to Collingwood, while Robert Evans Sr. facilitated his son’s flight back to the UK.
The Evans family entered Canada under false identities in June 2023, engaging in illicit activities involving driveway repairs during their stay. Authorities have flagged certain tight-knit traveller communities for conducting scams worldwide. The intricate extradition process from the UK to Canada is expected to be prolonged, with legal experts emphasizing the complexities and potential delays in the proceedings. Despite the passage of time since the arrests, the community of Owen Sound continues to mourn Rahman’s loss, with his widow expressing hope for eventual justice.
In the midst of ongoing extradition proceedings, law enforcement agencies in Ontario declined interview requests regarding the case. The arduous legal journey ahead underscores the challenges in seeking justice for the tragic death that has deeply impacted the community.
