ON July 27 at approximately 11:35 p.m., Agassiz RCMP frontline officers responded to a report of a vehicle fire in the 52100-block of Cheam Road in Popkum. Upon police and fire attendance, one person was located deceased inside the vehicle and criminality was suspected.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) took conduct of the investigation. IHIT investigators worked closely with their partners at the Agassiz RCMP, Chilliwack RCMP and BC Coroners Service to gather evidence and further the investigation.

On Saturday, August 16, IHIT is identified the victim as 22-year-old Hamza Fazil of Surrey in an effort to advance the investigation. Fazil’s remains were located in the burnt vehicle that was in the 52100-block of Cheam Road.

Fazil had previous interactions with the police. Investigators believe this was a targeted incident with links to the BC Gang Conflict.

Fazil was reported missing by family members and was last seen in Surrey on July 27 around 9 p.m. in the 13300-block of Old Yale Road of Surrey.

“This investigation is still in the early stages,” says IHIT Cpl. Sukhi Dhesi. “Investigators are looking to build a timeline of Mr. Fazil’s activities prior to the homicide. We would urge anyone with information about him or his activities in the days leading up to his death to contact investigators.”

Investigators continue to ask anyone who may have dash camera footage from the areas of Cheam Road and Bridal Falls Road between 10 p.m. on July 27 and 1 a.m. on July 28 to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.