ON Monday, March 23 at approximately 11:11 p.m., Abbotsford police Patrol officers responded to a report of a shooting at the Whatcom Road Park and Ride, which currently hosts a large homeless encampment.

Upon arrival, officers secured the area and located a man suffering from serious, life-threatening injuries. He was transported to hospital; however, despite medical efforts, he did not survive.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has assumed conduct of the investigation and continues work in close partnership with the Abbotsford Police Department’s Major Crime Unit, Forensic Identification Service (FIS), and the BC Coroners Services to advance this investigation.

The victim was a 69-year-old man who was a resident at the encampment. His name is not being released at this time as family notifications are still underway.

While the investigation is in its early stages, investigators believe this was an isolated and targeted incident. The investigation is ongoing; however, the incident is not believed to be related to gang activity or extortion.

“The swift response from AbbyPD [Abbotsford Police Department] was integral in securing the crime scene,” says Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT. “Crime scenes such as this one can be complex due to the outdoor component and exposure to the elements. You can expect investigators in the area for some time speaking with witnesses and searching the area.”

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.