The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has revealed the identity of the victim discovered in a burning car in Chilliwack’s Popkum area last week.
According to Agassiz RCMP, emergency responders were alerted to a car engulfed in flames on Cheam Road just after 11:30 p.m. Upon arrival, they found the body of 22-year-old Hamza Fazil from Surrey inside the vehicle. Fazil, who had prior encounters with law enforcement, was identified as the deceased.
Authorities suspect the incident was targeted and connected to the ongoing B.C. Gang Conflict.
Fazil’s family had reported him missing on July 27 in the vicinity of Old Yale Road near 133 Street.
IHIT Corp. Sukhi Dhesi stated, “This investigation is in its early stages. Our team is piecing together Mr. Fazil’s activities leading up to the tragedy. We urge anyone with information on his recent whereabouts to come forward.”
Individuals with potential evidence, such as witnesses or dash cam footage from the Cheam Road and Bridal Falls Road area between 10 p.m. on July 27 and 1 a.m. on July 28, are urged to contact IHIT at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or via email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.