Vancouver, 9 December, 2024: The Consulate General of India in Vancouver expressed its condolences following the fatal shooting of Indian national Harshandeep Singh in Edmonton on December 6. The 20-year-old, working as a security guard, was shot at an apartment complex in central Edmonton and later succumbed to his injuries in a hospital.
In a statement on Sunday, the Consulate confirmed the arrest of two suspects, identified as 30-year-olds Evan Rain and Judith Saulteaux, who have been charged with first-degree murder. The Consulate pledged support to Singh’s grieving family while remaining in contact with Canadian authorities.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Indian national Shri Harshandeep Singh,” the Consulate wrote in a post on X. “Two individuals have been arrested and charged with first-degree murder. We will remain in close contact with authorities and provide necessary assistance to the bereaved family.”
According to the Edmonton Police Service (EPS), a weapon was recovered during the arrests of the suspects. In a Saturday press release, EPS homicide Staff Sgt. Rob Bilawey explained the decision to publicly release Singh’s identity, stating, “Typically, we do not disclose the names of deceased individuals unless confirmed as homicide victims. In this case, we are doing so to aid the investigation and address public safety concerns related to Mr. Singh’s tragic death.”
Singh, a Punjabi student, had moved to Canada to pursue education and work opportunities. His death has sent shockwaves through the local Indian community, with many expressing concern over safety issues faced by international students in Canada.
Canadian media, including the Toronto Sun, reported that the fatal shooting took place late Friday at an apartment complex in the city’s central area. Paramedics rushed Singh to the hospital after the attack, but he could not be saved.
The Consulate’s assurance of assistance comes as the Indian community in Canada grapples with increasing incidents of violence involving students and young professionals, raising broader questions about their safety and well-being in foreign cities.