In a shocking incident that has sent waves of grief across Punjab and the Indian diaspora, two Punjabi youths were shot dead in southeast Edmonton, Canada, in the early hours of Friday. Canadian police believe the incident was a targeted attack and have launched a full-scale homicide investigation.
The victims have been identified as Gurdeep Singh, a resident of Bareh village, and Ranbir Singh from Uddat Saidewala village, both located near Budhlada in Punjab. The two young men had moved to Canada separately in pursuit of better career opportunities.
Gunshots Reported in Southeast Edmonton
Police Responded to Emergency Call at 1:43 AM
According to the Edmonton Police Service (EPS), officers received reports of gunfire at around 1:43 am in the area of 32 Street and 26 Avenue in southeast Edmonton.
When police arrived at the scene, they found two men in their twenties suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Officers immediately attempted life-saving measures until emergency medical teams reached the location. Despite these efforts, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Victims Were Heading to a Birthday Celebration
Family Learns Details Through Friend
Information shared with Gurdeep Singh’s family by his friend Arshdeep revealed that the two youths were on their way to celebrate a friend’s birthday when unidentified assailants allegedly opened fire on them.
The sudden and violent nature of the attack has left families in Punjab devastated, with relatives struggling to come to terms with the loss of their loved ones so far from home.
Homicide Section Takes Over Investigation
Autopsies Scheduled, SUV Under Scanner
The EPS Homicide Section has taken charge of the investigation. Police officials confirmed that autopsies are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday to determine further forensic details.
Investigators are currently searching for a dark-coloured sports utility vehicle (SUV) that may have been in the area at the time of the shooting. Authorities believe the vehicle could be linked to the suspects.
Police Appeal for Public Help
Dash Cam and CCTV Footage Requested
Edmonton Police have urged residents and commuters who were near the following locations to come forward:
- Silverberry Road and 23 Avenue
- 34 Street and 29 Street
Police are specifically seeking dash camera or security footage recorded between 2 pm on Thursday and 2:30 am on Friday. Anyone with relevant information has been asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service immediately.
Growing Concerns Over Safety of Punjabi Youths Abroad
This incident once again raises serious concerns about the safety of Punjabi youths and Indian students in Canada, especially those who migrate in search of education and employment. Over the past few years, similar violent incidents have sparked anxiety among families back home in Punjab.
Community leaders have called for a transparent investigation and swift justice, while families await official updates and arrangements to bring the bodies back to India.