THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has taken conduct of an investigation after three people were shot inside a residence in Chilliwack.
On Thursday, July 21, at 11 a.m., the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment RCMP (UFVRD) responded to a report of two women and a man suffering from gunshot wounds at a residence in the 9700-block of McNaught Avenue in Chilliwack.
Officers located one woman already deceased and a second woman suffering life-threatening injuries. The second woman was airlifted to Royal Columbian Hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
The man suffered non-life threatening injuries and was treated by paramedics on scene.
IHIT has taken conduct of the investigation and is working closely in partnership with the UFVRD Chilliwack RCMP, the BC Coroners Service and the RCMP Integrated Forensic Identification Section (IFIS)
IHIT released the name of the suspect as 50-year-old Eric John Shestalo, as he is still at large and considered armed and dangerous.
IHIT is urging the public to use caution and not approach Shestalo, and contact 9-1-1 immediately. Shestalo is described as white, 5’9”, and 176 pounds. He was last seen wearing black pants, a black jacket and a black hat with orange rim.
Shestalo was last observed driving a red 1990 Jeep YJ, which appears to have a yellow painted front end and may be bearing BC licence plate MT981W.
At this time, it is believed Shestalo was known to the victims and the shooting was targeted.
“Officers are working to locate Mr. Shestalo as well as any witnesses to this devastating incident.” said IHIT Sgt. Timothy Pierotti. “We are urging anyone with information, dashcam footage, or residential security footage, to come forward and speak with police as soon as possible.”
IHIT is asking that any witnesses or anyone traveling in the 9700-block of McNaught Avenue, Chilliwack, between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. with dash cameras or who have any information regarding the homicide to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
