A crucial court proceeding began this week in Calgary that will determine whether a local man will face trial for the alleged murder of his estranged domestic partner. The preliminary inquiry for Mohamad Anass Mahmou Al-Sahli commenced on Monday, November 17, 2025, with the Crown presenting evidence in the death of Anna Brazkho.
Court Proceedings and Publication Ban
Justice Susan Pepper has imposed a publication ban on evidence presented during Al-Sahli's preliminary inquiry, following a request from defence counsel Alain Hepner. The hearing is scheduled to span seven days, during which Crown prosecutors Janice Walsh and Erin Norman plan to call 13 witnesses to testify.
The purpose of a preliminary inquiry under Canadian law is to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to a full trial where a jury would weigh the case. This procedural step represents a critical juncture in the judicial process that could ultimately lead to a murder trial.
Background of the Case
Al-Sahli faces a charge of first-degree murder in connection with the March 3, 2025 death of Anna Brazkho. Court documents reveal a troubling history between the accused and the victim, showing that Al-Sahli was under a court order to have no contact with Brazkho at the time of her killing.
In September 2024, Al-Sahli had agreed to an 18-month peace bond related to domestic assault allegations. The conditions of this court order specifically prohibited him from contacting Brazkho or visiting her residence or workplace. The peace bond also included a weapons prohibition and required Al-Sahli to participate in any domestic violence or anger management programs recommended by probation services.
The Investigation and Current Status
According to Calgary police records, emergency services responded to a 911 call at approximately 1:50 a.m. on March 3, 2025 at a residence in the 100 block of Belmont Drive S.W. Upon arrival, police and EMS personnel discovered Brazkho deceased inside the home.
At the time of the incident, police indicated they believed the event was targeted and assured the public there was no ongoing danger. The investigation led to Al-Sahli's arrest and charging in connection with Brazkho's death.
Court records indicate that when Al-Sahli accepted the peace bond in September 2024, he was facing five criminal charges related to an incident that occurred on July 25, 2024. Four of those charges specifically identified Brazkho as the victim.
Al-Sahli remains in custody pending the outcome of the preliminary inquiry. If the case proceeds to trial and results in a conviction for first-degree murder, he could face a mandatory life sentence under Canadian law.
The hearing continues throughout the week as the court examines the evidence to determine whether there is sufficient cause for a trial in this high-profile Calgary case.
