A Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, man has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with a highway shooting south of Edmonton earlier this month that left a 22-year-old man dead. Jimmy Gassner, 18, was arrested Saturday in Canoe Lake Cree First Nation, approximately 200 kilometres northeast of Cold Lake, and remains in custody as he awaits transport back to Alberta for court proceedings.
The shooting occurred on March 14th along the Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Highway, near Township Road 490. Birinder Singh, of Edmonton, was driving a Honda Civic with two friends when a grey 2022 Ford F150 pulled alongside their vehicle. According to RCMP, witnesses reported a hand gesture – described as resembling a peace sign – was made from the truck towards the Civic. Singh reportedly returned the gesture before shots were fired, striking him in the neck. His friends managed to pull the car over to the side of the highway.
The incident has prompted a thorough investigation by the Alberta RCMP, who have been working to identify all those involved. While Gassner has been charged, police have stated that the investigation remains ongoing and they are still searching for additional occupants of the Ford F150. Corporal Troy Savinkoff, a public information officer with Alberta RCMP, confirmed that witnesses indicated more than one person was in the truck at the time of the shooting.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, but investigators have ruled out some initial theories. Savinkoff stated that police do not believe Singh knew his attacker prior to the incident, suggesting it wasn’t a targeted attack stemming from a pre-existing conflict. “We don’t believe that the victim and the accused knew each other leading up to this event, so it wasn’t as part of a prolonged targeted incident that led to this,” he said.
Singh, originally from India, had been living in Alberta for several months. Friends who survived the shooting, speaking anonymously to Global News, shared that he had moved to Brampton, Ontario, three years ago as an international student, studying business administration before relocating to Edmonton in October. He was employed in construction and was on his way to the Canadian Rockies for the first time when the shooting occurred.
Investigation Focuses on Motive, Potential Hate Crime
The investigation has broadened to consider the possibility that the shooting was motivated by hate. Jaskaran Sandhu, president of the Alberta chapter of the World Sikh Organization, stated that RCMP informed the organization that hate is being considered as a potential factor. Sandhu noted that all three occupants of the Honda Civic were wearing turbans, a traditional head covering worn by Sikh men.
“Despite the laying of these charges, we know that there will be many questions regarding suspects and motivations,” said Staff Sergeant John Brown of the Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit. “Please understand that our ability to answer these questions is limited while our officers continue their important perform.”
Truck Recovered, Investigation Continues
Last week, RCMP announced the recovery of the grey 2022 Ford F150 believed to have been involved in the shooting. As reported by Global News, the location where the truck was found has not been disclosed to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
Savinkoff emphasized the need to maintain the confidentiality of certain details. “I know there’s a lot of speculation that happens. Unfortunately, I can’t join some of that speculation,” he said. “We have to collect all of our evidence and then once charges are laid, and there’s a court process, then we can start talking about some of those details that led us to where we were.”
Public Assistance Acknowledged
RCMP officials have acknowledged the valuable assistance received from the public throughout the investigation. Tips and information provided by citizens have played a role in advancing the case.
The death of Birinder Singh has deeply affected his friends and the wider community. The World Sikh Organization has expressed its condolences to Singh’s family and friends, and is closely monitoring the investigation. The organization is also offering support to those impacted by the tragedy.
“It’s very, very tragic. A young man is dead and at this point, we’re not sure why,” Savinkoff said.
Gassner remains in custody and is being transported back to Alberta. RCMP have not yet announced dates for future court appearances. The investigation continues, with authorities urging anyone with information to arrive forward.
With files from Bill Graveland, The Canadian Press
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health distress, please reach out for help. Resources are available, including the Canada Suicide Prevention Service at 1-833-456-4566, or text HOME to 686868.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as they develop into available. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and condolences in the comments below.
Worth a look
