Man Who Performed CPR on Shooting Victim Describes Effort to Keep Him Alive

A tragic shooting in Edmonton’s Rundle Heights neighbourhood highlights the emotional impact and importance of bystander intervention during violent emergencies. A man who attempted to save a shooting victim’s life through CPR has described the harrowing moments before emergency crews arrived.

What Happened in Rundle Heights

Police were called to a housing complex near 116A Avenue and 32 Street at approximately 1:50 a.m. on Monday, August 27, 2018, after residents reported hearing a fight followed by a gunshot. Officers arrived to find a man in severe medical distress. Despite immediate attempts at resuscitation, the victim died at the scene.

The victim was later identified as 32-year-old Clinton Roderick Roasting. His death marked Edmonton’s 21st homicide of 2018.

Bystanders Step In to Help

A nearby resident, who requested anonymity for his family’s safety, said he was watching a movie with his common-law partner when they heard an argument and then a gunshot.

He instructed his partner to take their baby to the basement while he ran outside, shouting for someone to call an ambulance.

A neighbour soon emerged with medical supplies. Together, they found the wounded man lying on a sidewalk between two townhouses near 116A Avenue and 32 Street. The resident immediately began performing CPR, continuing for approximately eight to ten minutes in an effort to keep the victim alive until paramedics arrived.

“It seemed like at one point he just accepted it and went,” the man said.

Comfort During the Final Moments

The victim, who had suffered a gunshot wound to the neck, was in shock and initially tried to resist help. After realizing the bystanders were trying to save him, he allowed them to continue. One man supported his head, while a woman checked his pulse and held his hand, offering comfort until emergency crews arrived.

Police and paramedics reached the scene about 10 minutes later, but the man was pronounced dead on site.

Later that day, members of the victim’s family visited the scene. The man who performed CPR explained that everything possible had been done.

“I wanted them to know — it was traumatizing obviously — but he didn’t suffer,” he said.

Why CPR and AED Training Matters

Although CPR cannot save every life, this incident shows how critical immediate action can be during medical emergencies. Bystanders provided care, dignity, and comfort in a situation where every second mattered.

Enrolling in a CPR and AED training course—such as those offered through Winnipeg First Aid CPR courses—helps individuals learn how to:

Perform high-quality CPR
Use an AED safely and effectively
Respond to severe trauma and shock
Stay calm until emergency services arrive

👉 You can read the full original news article here: Man who performed CPR on shooting victim describes effort to keep victim alive

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

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Last reviewed: March 2026

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