ON Tuesday, October 5, at approximately 9:56 p.m., Surrey RCMP frontline officers responded to shots fired in the area of 124 Street and 80 Avenue. Officers found a male suffering from gunshot wounds in a driveway. Despite life-saving measures by paramedics, the victim succumbed to his injuries.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) was called in to investigate.
The victim is identified as 28-year-old Sharnbeer Singh Somal of Surrey. Hel was known to police. Homicide investigators believe the shooting was targeted and is connected to the ongoing gang conflict.
Shortly after the shooting, a black Ford pick-up was found on fire in the area of 129A Street and 72A Avenue. Homicide investigators believe it is connected to the shooting.
IHIT has completed processing of both locations with the assistance of the Surrey RCMP and the Integrated Forensic Identification Section (IFIS). Support was also provided by the Surrey Fire Department and the BC Coroners Service.
Homicide investigators are continuing their canvass in Surrey for witnesses and CCTV. Areas around the shooting and vehicle fire are of particular importance. Dashcam footage from vehicles in those areas on October 5 around 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. is being requested. Anyone with these or with information, is being asked to contact IHIT.
“This shooting happened in a residential area. It was a total disregard for the safety of others,” said IHIT Sgt. David Lee of IHIT, “We urge anyone with information to come forward and help find those responsible.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.