Surrey, Jan 14: Homicide investigators are searching for suspects after 48-year-old entrepreneur Binder Garcha was shot dead Tuesday afternoon on his property in Surrey. The attack occurred in the 3500-block of 176 Street, where emergency responders found Garcha suffering from critical gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) confirmed that they are now leading the probe. They noted that a vehicle fire reported in the 18900-block of 40 Avenue is likely linked to the shooter’s escape.
“IHIT has now taken over the investigation and are working in partnership with SPS to complete priority investigative tasks,” a police spokesperson directly said.
The victim was a well-regarded member of the Punjabi diaspora and operated several successful businesses, including a limousine service and a local banquet hall. Friends and colleagues described him as a hardworking immigrant who had built a significant legacy in Canada.
“He was known as a professional, warm, friendly and approachable person,” journalist Gurpreet Singh Sahota mentioned while identifying the victim.
The incident has intensified local debates regarding public safety and the protection of South Asian business owners. Community sources have noted that recent months have seen an increase in violent crimes targeting the community, often linked to extortion demands.
Authorities have not yet made any arrests in connection with the killing. Investigators are urging anyone who was in the area between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Tuesday to provide any relevant information or video evidence to the IHIT information line.
