Lawyers for two men accused of killing an Abbotsford couple have requested a third delay in their trial, nearly three years after their arrest.
Gurkaran Singh and Abhijeet Singh face two counts each of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of Arnold and Joanne De Jong in May 2022. A third man, Khushveer Toor, also charged with two counts of first-degree murder, has not applied to postpone his trial.
The trial is currently scheduled to begin on January 12, 2026. On Wednesday, the presiding judge reserved judgment on the latest adjournment request, with a decision expected later this month. A publication ban restricts reporting on details presented in court, aside from the nature of the proceedings.
The De Jong family said the repeated delays have been “incredibly difficult.” They described how each postponement prolongs their wait for justice and closure. “Every time another delay occurs, our lives are again placed on hold,” the family said. “We come here to the courthouse for every hearing because Arnie and Joanne were — and still are — so loved. And we come here to support each other.”
Arnold De Jong, 77, was a retired truck driver. Joanne De Jong, 76, spent her final days with family, celebrating Mother’s Day with her three grandchildren just a day before their deaths. The couple lived in the semi-rural 33600-block of Arcadian Way in Abbotsford, an area known for small acreages and wooded surroundings.
Authorities found the couple deceased in their home shortly after their holiday celebrations. The investigation has led to the charges against the three men, whose cases have involved multiple legal proceedings and court appearances over the past three years.
The ongoing delays highlight the challenges families face while waiting for the legal system to resolve serious criminal cases. The De Jong family emphasized their continued commitment to attending each hearing and supporting one another through the process.
The trial of Gurkaran Singh and Abhijeet Singh is part of a complex legal case that has attracted attention in Abbotsford and beyond. Court officials continue to manage scheduling while ensuring due process and adherence to legal protocols.
The case remains under careful scrutiny as the justice system works through pre-trial motions, publication bans, and procedural matters. Observers note that extended delays, while sometimes necessary, can add emotional strain for families of victims and complicate trial preparations.
Despite the challenges, the family said they remain focused on honoring Arnold and Joanne De Jong’s memory. The couple’s story, their close bond with family, and the circumstances surrounding their deaths have resonated deeply within the Abbotsford community.
Authorities urge anyone with information relevant to the case to come forward. The upcoming trial is expected to examine evidence thoroughly and ensure that all legal avenues are pursued before reaching a verdict.
The Abbotsford couple murder trial will continue to draw attention as court dates approach, with the community and family hoping for justice and a resolution after years of waiting.
