Gang violence in Edmonton has increased in recent years, with 196 shootings reported so far this year, a 46% increase from last year. The police are investigating a shooting that resulted in the death of an 11-year-old boy, whose father was involved in the gang drug world. The police have not made any arrests yet and are looking into possible links with a burned-out SUV found nearby. The police emphasize the danger these shootings pose to the public, as they often occur in public places. Justin Goulet reported
“The situation has changed,” he stated. “Our gangsters no longer show any respect for children, families, or innocent citizens when they resort to violence to further their own interests.”
The identity of the deceased boy has not been disclosed, but his father, Harpreet Uppal, who is 41 years old, has been identified.
“Mr. Uppal was a well-known figure in the world of gang drugs,” Derksen explained. “Over the years, we made significant efforts to warn him and provide opportunities for him to leave that lifestyle and ensure the safety of him and his family.”
Derksen mentioned that there was a previous attempt on Uppal’s life two years ago at a pizza restaurant.
Authorities are currently investigating potential connections between Thursday’s shooting and a burnt-out SUV discovered nearby. The vehicle was unoccupied.
Derksen noted that gang violence in public places has been on the rise in Edmonton in recent years.
He revealed that there have been 196 shootings reported so far this year, which represents a 46% increase compared to the same period last year.
While such shootings are typically related to gangs, Derksen emphasized the danger they pose to innocent bystanders.
“We are fortunate that we are not reporting any additional deaths or injuries today,” he added.
He pointed out that the shooting occurred near a daycare center.
As of now, no arrests have been made, Derksen confirmed.
This report was originally published on November 10, 2023, by The Canadian Press.
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In a recent statement, a spokesperson expressed concern about the changing landscape and lack of respect among gangsters. According to him, gangsters no longer consider the well-being of children, families, or innocent citizens when carrying out acts of violence to further their own interests. The spokesperson identified the father of a deceased boy as Harpreet Uppal, who was well-known in the gang drug world. Despite efforts to help Uppal leave that lifestyle and ensure his family’s safety, he was targeted again. The police are currently investigating a possible connection between the shooting and a burned-out SUV found nearby. The spokesperson highlighted the increasing trend of gang violence in public places in Edmonton, with a 46% rise in shootings compared to the previous year. While these incidents are typically gang-related, they pose a significant danger to bystanders. Fortunately, there were no additional casualties in this particular incident, which occurred near a daycare center. As of now, no arrests have been made. The report, originally published by The Canadian Press, was released on November 10, 2023. For more information, visit Lethbridge News Now. If you have any news tips or concerns, you can contact Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com..