ABHIJEET Singh, Khushveer Toor and Gurkaran Singh, all in their twenties, have been found guilty of first-degree murder in the killing of Abbotsford seniors Arnold De Jong, 77, and his wife, Joanne De Jong, 76, in Abbotsford,
The couple were found dead in their home on May 9, 2022. Both had been tied up with rope. Court heard that Arnold’s head had been wrapped in duct tape and he died by asphyxiation. Joanne was bludgeoned and her throat had been slashed.
On December 16, 2022, Integrated Homicide Investigation Team investigators along with members of Abbotsford Police arrested the three suspects who resided in Surrey for the murders of the De Jongs.
In court, the defence said it was a robbery gone wrong, but Crown argued that the motivation was financial pressure and greed.
Abhijeet Singh, who had an exterior home cleaning business, and Toor had done work at the couple’s home. The men killed the couple and stole cheques, credit cards and a power washer. The men used the cheques sand credit cards to try and pay off their debts and send money to family and friends.
Justice Brenda Brown said: “I am satisfied that the murders of both victims were carefully planned, deliberated and executed.” She added: “I’m satisfied each accused is guilty of first-degree murder.”
Sentencing for the three men is scheduled for May 28.
RULING:
www.bccourts.ca/jdb-txt/sc/26/08/2026BCSC0869.htm
