On March 14, 2026, a tragic shooting occurred on Highway 2 near Leduc, Alberta, resulting in the death of 22-year-old Birinder Singh. Singh, an international student from India, was driving his black 2012 Honda Civic when a grey Ford F-150 pickup truck pulled alongside and discharged a firearm into his vehicle. Singh died at the scene, leaving friends and community members in shock.
In the wake of this incident, 18-year-old Jimmy Gassner from Lloydminster has been charged with second-degree murder. Gassner was arrested on March 21, 2026, in Canoe Lake, Saskatchewan, as the investigation into the shooting continued. The RCMP Major Crimes Unit is actively looking into the case, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Staff Sgt. John Brown acknowledged that despite the charges laid against Gassner, many questions remain about the suspects and their motivations. Cpl. Troy Savinkoff added, “The motive remains unclear. We’re hoping to provide that to the public soon.” This uncertainty has led to calls from the World Sikh Organization of Canada to investigate the shooting as a potential hate crime.
Friends of Singh have expressed their grief and disbelief over the loss. One friend recounted the harrowing moment, stating, “They put his driver’s side window down, and the person who is sitting on the passenger, he took his gun and he gave us a shot.” This incident has resonated deeply within the community, prompting an outpouring of support for Singh’s family.
As the investigation unfolds, community members are left grappling with the implications of this tragic event. Many are thankful for the solidarity shown by their neighbors during these difficult times. A friend of Singh remarked, “I’m really thankful that the majority of the community is standing with us during these difficult times.”
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the investigation’s direction and whether the shooting will be classified as a hate crime. The recovery of the pickup truck involved in the incident has provided police with additional leads, but the community continues to seek answers and justice for Singh.
