THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is requesting public assistance to further its investigation into the shooting death of a Chilliwack man.
On March 10, at around 6:30 a.m., the Chilliwack RCMP responded to a shooting in the 45700-block of Alexander Avenue. Emergency services arrived to find 33-year-old James Vidal with gunshot wounds. He succumbed to his injuries at scene. IHIT was called in to take conduct of the investigation.
IHIT is working closely with the Chilliwack RCMP Serious Crime Unit to interview several witnesses. IHIT crime scene investigators worked alongside forensic specialists from the Integrated Forensic Identification Services to collect physical evidence. IHIT will continue to liaise with the B.C. Coroners Service and a post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted this week.
Information gathered so far suggests Vidal was known to police and his murder is not believed to be a random act.
“We are fortunate that no one else was hurt as a result of this careless act,” said Cpl. Frank Jang of IHIT. “IHIT will be aggressively pushing forward on its investigative avenues and we are looking to the community to partner with us in solving this murder.”
Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448), or email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).