A known gang member and his 11-year-old son were shot and killed outside an Edmonton fast-food restaurant. The boy’s friend, also present in the car, escaped unharmed. The police believe the shooting is connected to escalating gang violence in the city. Times Colonist reported
A well-known gang member and his 11-year-old son were tragically killed in a targeted shooting outside an Edmonton fast-food restaurant. Acting Supt. Colin Derksen revealed that the young boy was intentionally killed and not caught in the crossfire. Fortunately, another boy of the same age, who was a friend of the deceased child, managed to escape unharmed. Prior to the shooting, the two boys had briefly entered the A&W restaurant that shares space with a Petro-Canada gas station.
Acting Supt. Derksen emphasized that this lunch-hour shooting, which occurred in a busy suburban shopping plaza housing various businesses, including a daycare, is indicative of the escalating gang violence in the city. He expressed concern over the lack of respect shown by gangsters towards children, families, and innocent citizens when they engage in violence to further their own interests.
The gang member killed in the incident was identified as Harpreet Uppal, a 41-year-old individual who was well-known to the police and held a high position within the gang drug world. Authorities had made significant efforts over the years to warn Uppal and provide him with opportunities to leave his dangerous lifestyle and keep his family safe. However, previous attempts on his life had already occurred, with one incident taking place two years ago in a pizza restaurant. While a suspect was arrested in that shooting, charges were recently dropped against him.
The area where the shooting occurred in the southeast quadrant of the city appeared to have returned to normal the following day, with only a teddy bear and a few flowers serving as a reminder of the tragic event. The police are currently investigating a potential connection between the shooting and a stolen and burned-out SUV discovered on a nearby road. However, the motive behind the shooting, whether it was an act of retribution or control, remains unclear. Nevertheless, Acting Supt. Derksen asserted that the shooting was undoubtedly targeted.
Acting Supt. Derksen highlighted the increase in gang violence in public places in Edmonton in recent years. So far this year, the police have responded to 196 shootings, indicating a 46% rise compared to the same period last year. While these shootings are typically gang-related, they pose a significant risk to innocent bystanders.
Despite the concerning rise in gang violence, Acting Supt. Derksen urged the public not to panic. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made yet. The authorities are currently interviewing numerous witnesses who were present during the shooting. Additionally, Uppal’s family is actively cooperating with the police and sharing any relevant information.
The tragic incident occurred on November 10, 2023..