Three Suspects in Sharif Rahman’s Death Appear in Court

Three individuals charged in connection with the death of Owen Sound restaurateur Sharif Rahman made brief appearances in an Owen Sound courtroom on December 15, 2024. The suspects, who were extradited from the United Kingdom just one day prior, include Robert Busby Evans, aged 47, Barry Evans, aged 54, both charged with accessory after the fact, and Robert Evans Jr., aged 24, who faces a manslaughter charge.

During the court session, each suspect answered a few preliminary questions before being escorted out. All three remain in custody as the charges have yet to be tested in court. The allegations stem from an incident that occurred on August 17, 2023, when Rahman was assaulted during a dispute over a bill at his restaurant, The Curry House. The victim succumbed to his injuries a week later in a London, Ontario hospital.

The local community was deeply affected by Rahman’s death, as many described him as a gentle and community-oriented individual. Witnesses noted that he was well-liked and known for his charitable efforts, including fundraising dinners for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.

Following the incident, police stated that the suspects fled Canada, prompting a coordinated effort by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Owen Sound Police Service in collaboration with international partners. The Evans family members were apprehended in Edinburgh, Scotland, with Robert Evans Jr. and his father being arrested on July 30, 2024, and Barry Evans being taken into custody on October 29, 2024.

The court proceedings saw all three suspects represented by legal counsel via Zoom, and they are scheduled to appear again by video in January 2025. Justice of the Peace Kathryn Kellough imposed a publication ban on any evidence discussed during the bail process and prohibited communication between the suspects and eleven identified individuals.

Public interest in the case remains high, with one local resident, Ruth, attending the court to observe. She shared her emotional connection to Rahman and reflected on the impact his death had on the community. “We had dinner the night before Sharif was killed. And we frequented his restaurant and really liked him,” she remarked.

The court was informed of the details surrounding the alleged assault, where it is claimed that Robert Evans Jr. punched Rahman outside his restaurant, with Barry Evans present at the scene. Following the assault, it is alleged that Robert Evans Jr. fled, with Barry Evans allegedly encouraging him to escape in a vehicle. The police investigation indicates that Robert Busby Evans was aware of the incident and assisted his son in leaving Canada shortly after.

The legal proceedings surrounding this case will continue to unfold, as the community seeks justice for a beloved figure who dedicated his life to serving others.