IHIT continues to investigate the double shooting at a residence in Surrey on July 23rd. The deceased has been identified as 28 year old Jatinder Michael Sandhu. Mr. Sandhu does not possess a criminal record nor was he believed to be involved in the current conflict.
The driver of the vehicle, who also does not possess a criminal record, remains in hospital and is expected to make a full recovery. Police continue to look into any connections he may have with the conflict but can confirm that one of his family members is involved.
Sandhu worked at a bank and was enrolled to get his real estate license. His family is speaking out because of the bright future that was stolen away.
“This is not a drug hit, not a gang-related hit, this is mistaken identity of an innocent victim,” Sandhu’s uncle, Balkar Sandhu told media.
“This is a poor kid with a heart of gold, who would help you, who would give anything for you. I’ve known him for 28 years. I watched him be born, I’ve seen him grow up.”
IHIT confirms Sandhu and Sean Pasha, did not have criminal records and may not have been the intended target
Extensive canvassing in the area has been conducted and information from the public continues to be processed.
A suspect was witnessed fleeing the scene in a grey or silver Infiniti SUV (unknown year) and IHIT is asking for the public’s assistance to locate this vehicle.
IHIT and Surrey RCMP continue to work collectively on this investigation. Investigators believe this shooting to be targeted and as a result of the current conflict between individuals/groups within Surrey. Police believe that this shooting is linked to the conflict within Surrey, however, evidence and information obtained thus far suggests the victims may have not been the intended targets.
Police would like to remind individuals that just because you’re not directly involved in criminal activity or violence as a result of conflict, does not mean that you’re immune to the associated risks. If you have friends or family members involved in this lifestyle, you could very well become inadvertent collateral damage to these violent disputes, says Staff Sgt. Jennifer Pound.
Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT tip-line at 1-877-551-4448, or call CrimeStoppers to remain anonymous.
