A Surrey home was the target of an extortion-related shooting early Wednesday morning, according to police. The incident took place in the Newton neighborhood, where gunfire struck a residence while occupants were inside. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Details of the Incident
The Surrey Police Service received reports of gunshots near 57 Avenue and 148 Street at approximately 4:40 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered damage to the house and evidence that shots had been fired. Police confirmed that individuals were inside the home at the time of the shooting but were not harmed.
While the investigation is still in its early stages, authorities believe the shooting is connected to extortion. This marks the 17th extortion-related shooting in Surrey this year. Police declined to comment on whether the targeted residence had been previously involved in such incidents.
Extortion Trends in Surrey
The shooting adds to a growing list of extortion-related crimes in the city. According to police, there have been 108 extortion-related incidents in Surrey so far this year. Extortion threats and shootings targeting B.C.'s South Asian community have seen a decline in recent months but remain a top safety concern for law enforcement and government officials.
Last fall, the City of Surrey established a $250,000 reward fund for tips leading to arrests and convictions in extortion cases. Officials urge anyone with information to come forward.
How to Help
Authorities are asking anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage, or who recognizes the suspects, to contact the Surrey Police Service at 604-599-0502 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.
