THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on Wednesday identified Tuesday’s homicide victim in Chilliwack as Michael D’Lerma, 34, of Chilliwack in hopes of advancing the investigation.
On December 13 at around 6 p.m., the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment RCMP (UFVRD) responded to a shooting in the 9700-block of Windsor Street, Chilliwack. Police located a 34-year old man, suffering from gunshot wounds.
The victim was transported to local hospital by first responders where, sadly, he succumbed to his injuries.
IHIT has taken conduct of the investigation and is working closely in partnership with the UFVRD Chilliwack RCMP, the BC Coroners Service and the RCMP Integrated Forensic Identification Section (IFIS).
A short time later, UFVRD were notified of a vehicle fire in the 46700-block of Bailey Road, Chilliwack. IHIT is working with the Chilliwack RCMP and their forensic experts to determine if the two incidents are connected.
Initial evidence suggests this is a targeted homicide, though the motive is still under investigation, IHIT said.
IHIT is asking any witnesses who have yet to speak with police, anyone with dash-camera footage from the 46700-block of Bailey Road, between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on December 13, or anyone with information regarding the homicide to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.