Budhlada/Edmonton, Dec 14: What was meant to be a birthday celebration turned tragic when two Punjabi youths were shot dead by unidentified assailants in southeast Edmonton, Canada, their families said on Friday.
According to Arshdeep, a friend of Gurdeep Singh who later informed his family, the two were on their way to celebrate a friend’s birthday when they were fired upon.
“Gurdeep and Ranbir were together and had stepped out for a birthday celebration when unknown persons opened fire,” Arshdeep told the family.
Canadian police said the shooting occurred near 32 Street and 26 Avenue, adding that investigators believe the attack was not random.
“This was not a chance encounter. We believe the victims were targeted,” an EPS official said.
Police have appealed to residents in the areas of Silverberry Road and 23 Avenue, as well as 34 Street and 29 Street, to review dash camera or security footage recorded between 2 p.m. Thursday and 2:30 a.m. Friday.
“Any video, no matter how minor it may seem, could assist the investigation,” the police said.
Back home in Punjab, families in Bareh and Uddat Saidewala villages were inconsolable as news of the killings spread, with relatives urging authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.
