Police are releasing the identity of the 38-year-old man shot and killed at the University Golf Course yesterday, Oct. 17.
Vishal Walia died at the scene, police say, despite life-saving efforts from first responders. In a press release, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) say they believe it was a targeted shooting, related to the ongoing Lower Mainland gang conflict.
Police were called to the scene around 9:49 a.m. after receiving reports of a shooting in the golf course's parking lot on the University Endowment Lands. Walia was found near a white Porsche and officers attempted to keep him alive, but he succumbed to shotgun wounds.
Shortly after, at 10:02 a.m. a car on fire was reported nearby, in an alley behind the 4000-block of West 20th Avenue. Investigators are trying to figure out if the car on fire is connected to Walia's shooting.
“IHIT is urging anyone who had contact with Mr. Walia in the days leading to his death, to please contact police, as we continue to build a timeline of events,” says Sgt.Timothy Pierotti in a press release. “We are still appealing to anyone with dash cam video to secure the footage and to contact us immediately.”
IHIT is working with the RCMP's UBC detachment, BC Coroners Service, RCMP Forensic Identification Section and the VPD on the cases.
Anyone who may have information or footage related to the shooting or car fire are asked to call IHIT at 1-877-551-4448 or email [email protected].
With files from Alanna Kelly.
