THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is seeking public assistance to further its investigation into the homicide of 20-year-old Leonardo Ngo after an altercation outside a townhouse complex in Surrey last Monday.
Ngo was known to police and IHIT investigators believe this was not a random incident.
On August 6, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the Surrey RCMP responded to a report of a stabbing at a townhouse complex near 152nd Street and 108th Avenue. When emergency services arrived, they found a male victim with stab wounds who was taken to hospital in stable condition. A short time later, Ngo arrived at hospital with serious life-threatening injuries. He later died in hospital. Both victims are believed to be related to the same incident.
IHIT investigators were seeking the public’s help in locating a 2017 black Jeep Cherokee Trail Hawk with B.C. license plates GH959X that is associated to Ngo.
On Friday (August 10) at approximately 2 a.m., the Burnaby RCMP received a report of a vehicle on fire in the 9000-block of Ashgrove Crescent. Police determined that the burnt vehicle was the 2017 black Jeep Cherokee Trail Hawk that was being sought by IHIT investigators in relation to the homicide investigation of Leonardo Ngo.
IHIT said it is working closely with its partners from the Burnaby RCMP, the Burnaby Fire Department and the Integrated Forensic Identification Services to gather evidence from the vehicle.
“IHIT is strongly encouraging anyone with information about the circumstances surrounding the burnt 2017 black Jeep Cherokee Trail Hawk to come forward,” said IHIT Cpl. Frank Jang.
IHIT also continues to work closely with its partners from the Surrey RCMP, the Integrated Forensic Identification Services and the B.C. Coroners Service to advance the investigation. An autopsy will be conducted at a later time to determine the cause of death.
“In releasing Mr. Ngo’s name, we are hoping that those who knew him will come forward and assist IHIT in determining his activities around the time of his death,” said Jang.
Anyone with information is asked to 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 CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).