Our Bureau
Calgary
A disturbing incident unfolded on March 23, 2025, at a crowded CTrain station in Calgary, Canada, where an Indian-origin woman was violently attacked while bystanders looked on without intervening. The assault was captured on video, which has since gone viral, igniting widespread outrage and discussions about public safety and racism.
The attacker, identified as 31-year-old Braydon Joseph James French, approached the victim at approximately 1:40 PM. Footage shows him grabbing her jacket, shaking her violently, splashing water from her bottle onto her face, and slamming her against the walls of a transit shelter while demanding her phone. Despite the woman’s screams for help, no one in the vicinity stepped in to assist her as the assault continued for several harrowing moments.
Calgary police quickly responded to the incident, apprehending French within 25 minutes with the assistance of witnesses. He has been charged with attempted robbery. In a statement, police noted that they do not believe the attack was racially motivated; however, their Diversity Resource Team is engaging with community members to address concerns stemming from the incident.
The lack of intervention by bystanders has drawn sharp criticism online. Many social media users expressed disbelief that numerous individuals stood by without helping the victim. Comments highlighted a perceived double standard regarding public reactions to violence based on the victim’s ethnicity.
Inspector Jason Bobrowich of the Calgary Police Service emphasized that such incidents are unacceptable and pledged to ensure community safety. The victim is currently receiving support from local authorities and has requested privacy as she navigates the aftermath of this traumatic experience.
This incident raises critical questions about public safety and community responsibility in violent situations, prompting calls for greater awareness and intervention strategies among bystanders in similar scenarios.
