IHIT Identifies 18-Year-Old Victim in Fatal Surrey Shooting

The victim of a deadly shooting in Surrey’s Newton neighbourhood has now been identified, as investigators continue to search for answers and gather evidence from multiple crime scenes.

Young Surrey Man Dies After Overnight Shooting

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has confirmed that 18-year-old Gaurav Deol of Surrey was the victim of a fatal shooting that happened early Sunday morning.

Emergency crews responded to reports of gunfire near 138 Street and 62 Avenue just before 12:30 a.m. on May 31. When officers arrived, they discovered Deol inside a vehicle that had crashed into a power pole.

He had suffered gunshot wounds. Despite immediate efforts by first responders, he died at the scene.

Burned SUV Found Minutes Later

Meanwhile, the investigation quickly expanded to a second location.

About 25 minutes after the shooting, police received reports of a vehicle fire near 106 Avenue and Salisbury Drive. Officers located a burned white Toyota SUV at the scene.

Investigators believe the SUV may have been used during the shooting and later set on fire in an apparent attempt to destroy evidence.

As a result, IHIT took control of the case and began examining both locations.

Gang Connection Being Explored

At this stage, investigators have not confirmed a motive. However, police believe the shooting was targeted and may be linked to gang activity.

The Surrey Police Service says there is currently no indication that the incident was random.

IHIT Sgt. Freda Fong said investigators are working closely with Deol’s family while also looking into his recent activities and connections.

“This is a tremendously difficult time for the victim’s family,” Fong said.

She added that investigators continue to conduct extensive witness canvassing and collect surveillance footage from both the shooting scene and the vehicle fire location.

Police Seek Witnesses and Dashcam Footage

Investigators are urging anyone who may have information to come forward.

In particular, IHIT wants to hear from people who were in either area between 10 p.m. on May 30 and 1 a.m. on May 31. Dashcam recordings and surveillance video could play a key role in advancing the investigation.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact IHIT at 1-877-551-4448 or email ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Investigation Continues

For now, detectives remain focused on piecing together the events that led to the fatal shooting and the suspected vehicle arson that followed.

As the investigation moves forward, police hope witness accounts and video evidence will help identify those responsible and provide answers for the victim’s family.