Two individuals, one of Indian descent, fell victim to a fatal shooting incident in South Edmonton, as reported by CTV News Edmonton.
Identified as Buta Singh Gill, the proprietor of Gill Built Homes in Edmonton, the Indian-origin victim was among those fatally shot.
Edmonton police disclosed in a press release that their Southwest Branch patrol officers swiftly responded to reports of gunfire in the vicinity of Cavanagh Boulevard Southwest and Cherniak Way Southwest. The incident led to the tragic deaths of two men, with another sustaining severe injuries. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) promptly attended the scene, confirming the fatalities of a 49-year-old and a 57-year-old, while a 51-year-old male was transported to the hospital with grave injuries.
The Edmonton Police Service asserted that their homicide section has taken charge of the investigation and assured the public that they are not pursuing any suspects. Autopsies for the deceased are scheduled for the following days.
The victim's family identified Buta Singh Gill, renowned for his business in Edmonton, as one of the deceased. A gathering of around 50 individuals, predominantly comprising members of the South Asian home-building community, congregated at the site, reflecting the shock and sorrow rippling through the local populace.
Police advisories urged citizens to steer clear of the area under investigation while assuring the public of no imminent threats to safety. Former city councillor Mohinder Banga, expressing grief over Gill's demise, recalled his altruistic nature, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to aiding others.
Eyewitness accounts shed light on the harrowing events, with Lindsay Hilton recounting the sequence of events leading up to the shooting. Another bystander, Abby Sieban, echoed the sentiments of disbelief and distress, emphasizing the unexpected nature of such violence occurring in broad daylight.
The incident, marked by its sudden and brazen nature, has cast a pall of shock and sadness over the community, underscoring the need for swift and comprehensive investigations into such acts of violence.