A 19-year-old Abbotsford man was found with severe injuries in Surrey on January 27. He died in hospital on February 1. Investigators believe this was a targeted crime. Four suspects now face first-degree murder charges. A fifth suspect faces forcible confinement charges.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team says officers first learned of the case when witnesses saw a man being beaten. This happened on the 2900 block of Victoria Street. The victim was forced into a vehicle. He was driven away.
About three hours later, the victim was found near Crescent Beach. He had life-threatening wounds. Emergency crews took him to a local hospital. He died there five days later.
On August 1, police named the four men charged with first-degree murder and forcible confinement. They are two Surrey residents, one from Winnipeg, and one from Brampton, Ontario. The two Surrey residents are 20-year-old Jaskaran Singh and 22-year-old Bipanpreet Singh. Winnipeg’s suspect is 21-year-old Ravdeep Gill. The fourth man is 26-year-old Harmandeep Gill of Brampton.
Another Abbotsford resident, 19-year-old Inderpreet Khosa, faces a single charge of forcible confinement. He is not charged with murder.
Police say early evidence shows the victim was chosen at random. They add the incident was not linked to gang conflicts in British Columbia. The motive remains under review.
Investigators have worked with several agencies to build the case. These include local police, the coroners service, and forensic teams. Officers in Winnipeg and Manitoba also helped. This joint effort spanned six months.
Constable Sukhi Dhesi, media relations officer for the homicide team, said the cooperation was key. He praised all teams for their work. He noted that careful evidence gathering led to the charges.
The suspects are due in court later this month. Police have not released bail details. No trial dates are set yet.
Family and friends of the victim have not made public statements. The young man’s name is withheld under privacy rules.
The case highlights growing concerns about youth violence. It also shows the role of rapid police response. Witnesses who saw the assault helped police act fast. Their tips proved vital.
Police urge anyone with more information to come forward. They say even small details can aid the inquiry. Tips can be sent anonymously.
Court documents list all five men as residents of Canada. Charges carry life sentences if the murder convictions hold. First-degree murder requires proof of planning and intent.
Forcible confinement charges can add extra years to a sentence. They cover holding someone against their will.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team reminds the public that charges are allegations. All accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
