THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team on Friday announced that the victim of Thursday’s homicide in Abbotsford was Alexander Blanarou, 24, of Surrey.

“Mr. Blanarou was known to police and evidence to this point suggests this was a targeted homicide.  There are many more investigative avenues that IHIT needs to concentrate on and we are looking to speak with any witnesses who may not have already come forward to police,” said IHIT Cpl. Frank Jang.

Police said that his family had been notified and they were releasing his name and photograph in order to further the ongoing homicide investigation.

On December 28, just before 2:30 p.m., the Abbotsford Police Department received a report of a possible shooting in the 5300-block of Bates Road near Harris Road.  Police found a deceased male at the scene with gunshot wounds and IHIT was called in.

IHIT continues to work closely with its partners from the Abbotsford Police Department and the B.C. Coroner’s Service to gather evidence.

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 Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).