THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) was called to Maple Ridge following an altercation which left one person deceased.

On Monday, March 16 at approximately 7:30 p.m., Ridge Meadows RCMP frontline officers responded to a report of a fight in progress at a residence in the 23700-block of 110 Avenue. When officers arrived on scene they located a male victim in medical distress. Despite life-saving efforts by officers and emergency health services, the male did not survive. One person was arrested at the scene.

While the investigation is still in its early stages, investigators believe this is an isolated incident involving parties known to each other. Police do not believe there is any further risk to the public. Officers are continuing to gather evidence in the area and the scene will be cordoned off for some time as the investigation continues.

Later, IHIT said it continues to work in close partnership with the Ridge Meadows RCMP Serious Crime Unit, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services (IFIS) and the BC Coroners Service to advance the investigation.

A man remains in custody as IHIT investigators determine his exact involvement in the victim’s death.

Investigators believe this was an isolated incident, where the parties involved were known to each other. The investigation is ongoing; however, the incident is not believed to be related to gang activity or extortion.

“Due to the swift response by the Ridge Meadows RCMP frontline officers, the scene was quickly made safe and secured for further investigation,” said Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT. “You can expect investigators in the area as witness interviews and CCTV review are ongoing.”

Anyone with further information regarding this investigation is asked to contact IHIT at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.