IHIT called in after five-year-old child found dead in Surrey home

ON Monday, at approximately 9:15 p.m., Surrey RCMP frontline officers responded to a report of a woman stabbed at a residence in the 15400-block of 94 Avenue in Guildford. The seriously injured 42-year-old woman was able to flee the residence and call police; however, a five-year-old child remained inside the home.

The suspect in the stabbing, who is known to the victims, allegedly set a fire inside the residence and left the scene in a red Subaru prior to police arrival. Surrey Fire Service extinguished the fire and tragically, the child was located deceased inside the home. The cause of the child’s death is still under investigation.

At approximately 9:40 p.m., Coquitlam RCMP received a report of a man jumping from the Port Mann Bridge. The man, who is presumed deceased, is believed to be the suspect in the stabbing and fire in Surrey. His vehicle was located on the bridge. The Coquitlam RCMP is conducting a search for the man in the Fraser River.

This incident does not appear to be a random act. The area surrounding the scene will be cordoned off for a significant amount of time. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has been called and will be working in partnership with the Surrey RCMP Serious Crime Unit.

“This is a heart-breaking incident, and many people in the community, including first responders, will feel the impact of this tragedy,” said Sgt. Elenore Sturko, Surrey RCMP Media Relations Officer. “We express our condolences to the families involved, and encourage anyone who is struggling with this news to reach out for support from their healthcare provider.”

Police are currently in the evidence-gathering phase, and no further information will be provided at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation can call the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.  Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).