THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) said on Thursday that an adult and two youths were in police custody following an assault in Abbotsford on Wednesday night in which one man died. 

IHIT said the victim has been identified but his name is not being released pending next of kin notification. The victim is 41 years old and from Abbotsford with no connection to gangs.

On May 25 at around 10:30 p.m., Abbotsford Police Department responded to an assault in the 32900-block of South Fraser Way. First responders found a man suffering from serious life-threatening injuries. Emergency care was provided, but the man succumbed to his injuries. IHIT was called in to investigate. 

An initial canvass was completed by Abbotsford Police’s Major Crime Unit and with assistance of patrol officers and the Lower Mainland Police Dog Service (IPDS), one adult and two youths were located and taken in custody for their suspected involvement. This is believed to be an isolated incident. 

IHIT is working in partnership with Abbotsford Police and their Forensic Identification Section (FIS). The BC Coroners Service has also been engaged. Statements are being taken and the forensic examination continues. The investigation is still in its early stages and a timeline of events is being constructed. 

“Homicide detectives are canvassing the area looking for witnesses and CCTV,” said IHIT Sgt. David Lee. “Although arrests have been made, we are still searching for key evidence, and priority tasks are being completed.” 

IHIT is looking for dashcam footage or CCTV from the area in the 32900-block of South Fraser Way around 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. on May 25. 

Anyone with information is being asked to call IHIT on the Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.