On June 23, 2025, emergency responders in south Edmonton’s Chappelle neighborhood discovered 45-year-old Ramona Bowen deceased from sharp force trauma inside a residence near Charles Bay and Charles Way. The Edmonton Police Service has since classified the death as a homicide and charged 41-year-old Matthew Harper, known to the victim, with second-degree murder. The suspect remains in custody while the investigation continues, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward amid growing concerns over recent violent crimes in the city.
Details of the Incident and Investigation
Emergency responders were called to a residence near the intersection of Charles Bay and Charles Way in the Chappelle neighborhood in the late evening hours of June 23, 2025. Upon arrival, they found 45-year-old Ramona Bowen suffering from multiple sharp force injuries. Despite immediate medical attention, Ms. Bowen was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) quickly launched a homicide investigation, treating the case with the highest priority. Evidence collected at the scene, along with witness statements and forensic analysis, led to the identification of 41-year-old Matthew Harper as a suspect connected to the victim.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Matthew Harper, who was known to Ms. Bowen, was arrested and formally charged with second-degree murder. He remains in custody pending further legal proceedings. The charge indicates that the killing was intentional but did not meet the criteria for first-degree murder, which typically involves premeditation.
The EPS has not disclosed additional details about the nature of the relationship between the suspect and the victim, citing the ongoing investigation. Authorities have also emphasized the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in court.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
The incident has heightened concerns among residents of south Edmonton, especially within the Chappelle community, as it follows a recent increase in violent offenses in the area. Local officials and law enforcement have reiterated their commitment to enhancing public safety and crime prevention efforts.
Police have urged anyone who may have information related to the homicide to contact the Edmonton Police Service or Crime Stoppers. Anonymous tips can be provided to aid investigators in constructing a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the death.
Ongoing Developments
The EPS investigation is active, and further updates will be released as new information becomes available. The community and interested parties are encouraged to stay informed through official channels to receive accurate and timely updates.
The homicide of Ramona Bowen on June 23, 2025, has prompted a thorough investigation by the Edmonton Police Service, resulting in the arrest and charge of Matthew Harper with second-degree murder. As the case progresses through the legal system, authorities continue to seek public assistance to shed light on the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. The incident has also brought renewed attention to community safety in south Edmonton, with local officials and law enforcement committed to addressing the recent rise in violent crime. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any relevant information while awaiting further developments from official sources.
