Late-Night Incident Under Investigation

A man was fatally shot late Friday night in Surrey, B.C., prompting a major police response. The shooting occurred around 11:40 p.m. near the 10400 block of 152 Street, where officers arrived to find the victim with critical injuries. Despite emergency efforts, he died at the scene.

Details From Responding Officers

According to the Surrey Police Service (SPS), frontline officers were dispatched after multiple reports of gunfire in the busy Guildford area. Upon arrival, they secured the scene and called for additional support as evidence suggested a targeted attack rather than a random act.

Investigation Led by IHIT

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has taken control of the case, marking Surrey’s sixth homicide of the year. Investigators say early findings point to a targeted shooting, and the incident is not believed to be linked to extortion. However, the motive remains unclear as detectives continue to gather information.

Coordinated Police Effort

IHIT is now working alongside the Surrey Police Service and the RCMP’s Surrey Provincial Operations Support Unit to conduct priority investigative tasks. Police say the investigation is in its early stages, and officers continue to canvass the neighbourhood for witnesses and surveillance footage.

Appeal for Public Assistance

Authorities are asking residents or businesses with security cameras in the area to review their footage from Friday night. Anyone with information or video evidence is urged to contact IHIT as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the fatal shooting.

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Surrey’s ‘Socks for a Cause’ Drive Expands Across Region

A Growing Community Effort

A grassroots winter initiative led by Surrey resident Jeevan is once again mobilizing communities in Surrey, White Rock, and Delta to help local residents stay warm as temperatures drop. The annual “Socks for a Cause” campaign—now a familiar seasonal effort—focuses on collecting cozy socks for vulnerable individuals across the region.

Why the Drive Matters

The organizer says the mission is simple but deeply meaningful: to provide comfort to those who may not have access to basic warm clothing during the winter months. “Helping those who need support truly matters,” Jeevan said in a message shared by UNITI, emphasizing that even something as small as warm socks can make a significant difference for someone facing cold conditions.

Where Donations Go

Once collected, all socks are delivered to the Sources Food Bank in South Surrey/White Rock. The organization then distributes them directly to individuals and families in need. Janet Welch, Sources’ manager of philanthropy and communications, said the initiative reflects the community spirit the organization relies on each winter, calling it “a wonderful example of generosity in action.”

How the Campaign Works

The donation drive runs until Wednesday, December 10, with multiple drop-off locations available across three municipalities. Community members can contribute new socks of any size or style, with organizers reporting strong participation so far and encouraging additional support before the deadline.

Donation Locations Across the Region

South Surrey / White Rock

• Mount Olive Lutheran Church — 2350 148 Street
• Physiomoves Ocean Park — 1599 128 Street
• RBC — 1586 Johnston Road, Unit #1
• UNITI South Campus — 15306 24 Avenue
• Chorus Apartments — 2358 153 Street

Panorama / Sullivan / Newton

• Abilities Neurological Rehabilitation — 5460 152 Street
• Physiomoves Surrey Panorama — #110–5260 152 Street
• UNITI North Campus — 13550 77 Avenue

Delta

• Chestnut House — 4576 55B Street
• Crossroads Community Inclusion — 4807 Georgia Street

Community Response So Far

Organizers say this year’s turnout has been encouraging, with a steady flow of donations and positive messages from the public. “Our initiative is going strong,” Jeevan said, noting gratitude for the “incredible support” behind the campaign.

Looking Ahead

With winter approaching quickly, the Socks for a Cause team hopes to collect as many donations as possible before the deadline. Residents across Surrey, White Rock, and Delta are encouraged to take part and help bring a small but meaningful measure of warmth to someone in need this season.

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Surrey’s Annual Tree Lighting Festival Draws Thousands to Civic Plaza

A Celebration That Brought the City Together

Surrey Civic Plaza welcomed thousands of residents and visitors on Nov. 22–23 as the city hosted its 15th annual Tree Lighting Festival and Holiday Market. The two-day event gathered families, couples and holiday enthusiasts for a free celebration designed to kick off the Christmas spirit. Organizers aimed to create an accessible, community-centered experience—one that succeeded in turning the plaza into a festive hub.

Holiday Attractions That Lit Up the Weekend

The centrepiece of the festival came on Saturday evening at 6:30 p.m., when a towering 60-foot Christmas tree burst into light. Crowds packed the plaza to witness the annual ceremony, a tradition that continues to anchor the event. Surrounding the tree, volunteers, vendors and performers worked together to bring a full slate of seasonal activities to the public.

New Ice Rink Adds Energy to the Event

Surrey’s newly opened outdoor ice skating rink quickly became one of the most popular features. Open for free 40-minute sessions, the rink welcomed skaters of all ages, offering equipment rentals and plenty of space for newcomers and pros alike. The addition served the city’s goal of expanding winter recreation options in a central, accessible location.

Activities and Experiences for All Ages

Younger visitors found a lineup of attractions waiting for them, including amusement rides, craft stations, face painting and a dedicated letters-to-Santa area inside KPU Surrey Campus. Local vendors filled the market tent with handmade goods, art and baked treats, while food trucks set up outside to keep the crowds well-fed.

Performances That Captured the Holiday Spirit

Four stages across Civic Plaza hosted back-to-back performances throughout the weekend, from dance groups and musical ensembles to puppet shows and classic holiday carolers. The programming was designed to keep the festival lively at every corner, giving attendees something to enjoy whether or not they participated in the hands-on activities.

Community Moments Shared Online

Photo spots around the plaza drew long lines as families and friends posed for festive snapshots. Organizers encouraged attendees to share their images on social media for a city-run photo contest, bringing digital engagement into the heart of the in-person celebration. Surrey BC Events later posted that the festival brought “smiles, laughs and holiday cheer,” signaling strong enthusiasm for next year’s edition.

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Surrey Shooting Sends One Person to Hospital; Police Officers Injured in Related Crash

Gunfire Reported Outside Surrey Home

A person was reportedly taken to hospital after shots were fired outside a home in Surrey on Sunday night, prompting a significant police response. The gunfire was reported around 9:10 p.m. on Nov. 23 in the 12100-block of 101B Avenue, where first responders found evidence of a shooting. The individual believed to have been injured was transported to hospital with suspected gunshot wounds, according to information from a freelance photographer at the scene. Police are working to confirm who was involved, what led to the shooting, and why the gunfire occurred.

Street Closed as Officers Investigate the Scene

Officers quickly closed the road and set up police tape to preserve the scene while investigators collected evidence. The area remained restricted to determine where the shots originated, how the incident unfolded, and whether the shooting was targeted. Police have not announced any arrests or suspects, and the motive remains under investigation as officers continue gathering statements and reviewing physical evidence.

SPS Cruiser Involved in Collision While Responding

At roughly the same time as the shooting response, an SPS cruiser was involved in a separate collision in the 12500-block of 96 Avenue. A photographer at the scene initially reported that the police vehicle appeared to have T-boned another car. However, Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton clarified Monday that the marked SPS SUV, travelling with lights and sirens activated, was struck by another vehicle while officers were responding to the shooting call. The two officers inside the cruiser sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.

Collision Investigation Continues

The two occupants of the civilian vehicle involved in the crash were not injured, police confirmed. The collision is now under active investigation as authorities review how the vehicles made contact and what led to the impact. Traffic in the area was temporarily disrupted while the damaged police SUV was examined and removed.

Further Police Updates Expected

SPS says it expects to release additional information regarding the shooting later Monday morning as investigators confirm the extent of the victim’s injuries and assess potential suspects or motives. Authorities continue piecing together the sequence of events to understand how the shooting occurred and how the police response led to the secondary collision.

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Six Surrey Students Shine at 2025 Dhahan Youth Awards

Recognition for Young Writers

Six Surrey secondary students were honoured on November 13 at the 2025 Dhahan Youth Awards, a national showcase celebrating creative writing in both Punjabi and English. The annual event, hosted as part of the 11th Dhahan Prize for Punjabi Literature ceremonies, highlights the voices of young writers and promotes storytelling rooted in Punjabi culture.

Event’s Cultural Purpose

Surrey Schools says the awards continue to serve as a platform for Punjabi youth to embrace their cultural identity through literature. The program encourages students to explore heritage, language, and lived experiences through storytelling. Organizers emphasize that the awards help preserve and expand Punjabi literary traditions among Canada’s next generation.

History Behind the Awards

Founded in 2017 in partnership with L.A. Matheson Secondary and the Coast Capital Foundation, the Dhahan Youth Awards have consistently featured Surrey students. The initiative has grown into a prominent youth literary showcase, offering students exposure, mentorship, and publication opportunities.

Local Students Among Top Winners

Eight students received awards this year, including six from Surrey representing L.A. Matheson, Princess Margaret, and Queen Elizabeth secondary schools. The Surrey honourees are:

• Arshdeep Kaur Sidhu – L.A. Matheson Secondary
• Navdeep Kaur Gill – L.A. Matheson Secondary
• Simran Kaur Choongh – L.A. Matheson Secondary
• Jasmeen Rai – Princess Margaret Secondary
• Jasmeet Kaur Bassi – Princess Margaret Secondary
• Ramneet Sidhu – Queen Elizabeth Secondary

Other recipients included Mandeep Kaur Sandhu and Inderdeep Kaur from Dasmesh Punjabi School in Abbotsford.

Awards and Publication

Each winner received a framed certificate, prize funds, and the opportunity to have their work published in Lofty Heights, an anthology showcasing standout submissions. This year’s collection is published in Gurmukhi, Shahmukhi, English, and French, reflecting Canada’s linguistic diversity and the award’s commitment to cross-cultural accessibility.

Future Opportunities for Students

Organizers say submissions for the 2026 Dhahan Youth Award will open soon, continuing the mission to empower young storytellers across British Columbia and beyond. Additional details will be available on the dhahanprize.co.

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Sudden Caucus Removal

Surrey-Cloverdale MLA Elenore Sturko was expelled from the B.C. Conservative caucus on Monday evening in Victoria, only hours after party leader John Rustad survived a leadership review. Caucus chair Jody Toor confirmed the decision but did not provide an official reason.

Sturko’s Response

Speaking outside the B.C. Legislature, Sturko said she was “absolutely blindsided” by the removal. She insisted she had not plotted against Rustad and denied allegations of organizing against his leadership. “My office will remain open, and I will find a path forward,” she said.

Accusations of Disloyalty

Sturko acknowledged discussing the review with colleagues but maintained she was not attempting to undermine Rustad. She suggested the leader may have feared scrutiny over the process. In her remarks, she called for Rustad to resign, arguing he has failed to unite the party.

Rustad’s Leadership Backing

Earlier the same day, Rustad secured 71 per cent support in a leadership review involving more than 1,200 party members, winning in 78 of 93 ridings. Rustad framed the outcome as a clear mandate to lead the Official Opposition, despite ongoing internal divisions.

Political Fallout

Sturko will now sit as an independent MLA, leaving the Conservative caucus weaker as it continues to manage internal fractures. The party has already lost multiple members this year, including Dallas Brodie, Tara Armstrong, and Jordan Kealy. Two of them have since launched a new political party.

What Lies Ahead

Sturko says she feels a “deep sense of hurt” but remains committed to representing Surrey-Cloverdale. Political observers warn her expulsion could deepen rifts within the Conservatives, jeopardizing Rustad’s ability to hold his caucus together ahead of future legislative battles.

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Surrey Welcomes Annual Celebration of Arts and Culture

Surrey is set to host a series of free events as part of the national Culture Days festival, running from Sept. 19 to Oct. 12, 2025. The nearly month-long celebration aims to engage residents in arts, culture, and heritage activities across the city.

A City Embracing Diversity

Mayor Brenda Locke highlighted Surrey’s diversity in a recent city press release, noting the city as a hub where “people of all backgrounds can come together to live, learn, work, and belong.” She encouraged residents to participate in the free events designed to foster creativity, inclusivity, and community spirit.

Venues and Activities Across Surrey

The festival will feature interactive presentations and activities hosted by Community Arts, Public Art, Historic Stewart Farm, Museum of Surrey, and Surrey Archives. Last year, Surrey ranked among the top 10 communities in Canada for civic participation during Culture Days, reflecting strong local engagement.

Events for Every Interest

Highlights include Arts Day at Clayton Community Centre, the Harvest Fair at Historic Stewart Farm, and Indigenous-focused programs at Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House. The festival is designed to ensure there is “something for everyone to enjoy,” according to city officials.

Participation and Access

Residents can view the full schedule of events by visiting culturedays.ca, selecting “Events,” and searching for “Surrey.” Admission to all activities is free, offering a chance for families, students, and community members to engage with local culture without barriers.

Promoting Creativity and Community

Culture Days provides an annual platform for Canadians to explore artistic expression and heritage. In Surrey, the festival aligns with the city’s vision of a vibrant, thriving, and inclusive community, reinforcing the importance of arts and culture in daily life.

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Surrey Launches Online Grant Application Portal

New digital system introduced

The City of Surrey has rolled out a new online application portal designed to simplify the process for non-profit groups seeking cultural, community, and policing-related event grants. Announced on September 3, the platform replaces traditional PDF forms with streamlined web-based submissions.

Why the change matters

City officials say the move will make applying for funding “smoother and more accessible,” especially for grassroots organizations that rely on municipal support. Mayor Brenda Locke emphasized that grants strengthen Surrey’s cultural fabric, helping deliver events and programs that highlight diversity and bring residents together.

Funding opportunities highlighted

Each year, Surrey distributes grants in three major categories: cultural celebrations, community projects, and operating support. Eligible initiatives span music, dance, theatre, literature, media arts, visual arts, heritage activities, Indigenous celebrations, and more. In 2024, more than $617,000 was awarded to 94 organizations.

How residents can apply

The cultural grant intake opens September 15 and closes November 10, with pre-registered information sessions available to guide applicants through the process. Community grant applications for 2025 events are due September 30, with individual awards capped at $5,000. Meanwhile, policing grants are open year-round to help offset costs associated with large public gatherings.

Building stronger communities

City leaders say the simplified portal will remove barriers for local organizations and ensure funding is more accessible across Surrey’s growing population. By investing in cultural and community-driven events, officials aim to enhance quality of life, promote inclusion, and foster a stronger sense of connection among residents.

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Surrey Museum Honours Pioneer Kate Cindrich’s Legacy

A life remembered through history

The Museum of Surrey is paying tribute to one of Surrey’s earliest pioneers, Katerina (Kate) Cindrich, through a new exhibit that runs until October 19. The display highlights her immigration story, family struggles, and community contributions, offering Canadians a rare glimpse into life before the Second World War.

From Croatia to British Columbia

Born in 1909 in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, now Croatia, Kate married Josip Cindrich at just 15. Seeking a better future, Josip moved to Canada in 1928, with Kate following in 1937. The couple first settled in Princeton before making Surrey their permanent home in 1943, carrying their infant across the Pattullo Bridge to farmland in Whalley.

Clearing the “stump farms”

The Cindrich family, like many immigrant settlers, became known as “stump farmers.” Their land was littered with massive stumps left from logging, and survival depended on years of backbreaking work to clear and cultivate fields. Wildlife, wildflowers, and berry patches surrounded their farm, painting a vivid picture of Surrey’s rural landscape in the 1940s.

Building a family against hardship

Tragedy struck early in Kate’s life with the loss of her first two children to influenza. Later, in 1957, her husband Josip died, leaving her a widow with seven children—the youngest just four years old. Despite hardship, Kate became known for her resilience and determination to raise and educate her family.

Champion of education

Though unable to read herself, Kate became a strong advocate for education. She instilled in her children a deep respect for learning, ensuring they all graduated from high school, with many pursuing post-secondary studies. Her dedication was recognized in 1994 when a Surrey school, Cindrich Elementary, was named in her honour. The school’s library also bears her name.

Legacy in Surrey

Kate Cindrich lived in Surrey for 60 years, passing away in 2003 at the age of 94. Her legacy endures through her descendants, the school that bears her name, and the many families she inspired with her resilience. The Museum of Surrey’s exhibit preserves her story, celebrating the immigrant spirit that shaped British Columbia.

Exhibit details

The Kate Cindrich exhibit is open until October 19 at the Museum of Surrey. Admission is free. Visitors can learn more at surrey.ca/museum, by calling 604-592-6956, or by emailing museum@surrey.ca.

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Local Raffle Expands Support for Students in Need

The Rotary Club of North Delta has launched its fall 50/50 raffle to raise funds for the Magic Pencil program, an initiative that supplies essential school materials to local students. This year, the program will also cover warm winter clothing for children in need, addressing both educational and seasonal challenges faced by vulnerable families.

Program Founded Through School Partnership

Launched in 2023 in collaboration with the Delta School District, the Magic Pencil program provides annual funding to every elementary and secondary school in North Delta. Teachers use the funds to purchase school supplies for students whose families are unable to afford them. The program’s pilot year earned strong praise from educators for reducing the financial strain on classrooms.

Growing Needs in the Community

According to district estimates, school supplies cost about $100 for elementary students and $150 for those in secondary school. Nearly 600 children in North Delta’s 14 public elementary schools are food insecure, suggesting many also lack access to supplies and adequate clothing. Data from the Early Development Instrument shows 28.4% of Delta kindergarten students are vulnerable in at least one developmental area, with North Delta East reporting the highest rates in the city.

Rotary’s Expanded Vision for 2025

The Rotary Club’s goal this year is to ensure no child’s education is compromised by the absence of supplies, proper clothing, or nutritious food. The program’s initial funding came from the Delta Community Foundation’s Community Prosperity Fund, supplemented by grants and community donations to sustain its $35,000 annual budget.

How the 50/50 Draw Works

To fund the program’s expansion, Rotary members are selling raffle tickets at local grocery stores, community events, and online. Tickets are priced at $10 each, four for $20, or 20 for $50. The draw will take place on Thursday, October 16, 2025. As of August 14, the jackpot had reached $9,260, guaranteeing the winner at least $4,630.

Impact on Student Success

Research from Canada, Australia, and California has found that strong early development scores are linked to higher academic achievement in Grade 3, especially in literacy and math. By covering both school supplies and winter clothing, the Magic Pencil program aims to give North Delta students the tools they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.

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