Police update probe into group assault at bus stop

RCMP say they have identified a suspect group but have not yet made any arrests in the investigation of an assault of an international student in Kelowna.

Police received a report a man had been assaulted at Highway 97 N near McCurdy Road at the bus stop around 10:30 p.m. on Friday, March 17.

Officers attended and found the victim laying on the ground. Friends of the victim had already arrived to assist.

“RCMP were told that a group of people were teasing the victim and when the victim exited the bus, he was hit from behind and assaulted,” Const. Mike Della-Paolera said.

A GoFundMe has identified the victim as Gagandeep Singh, a 21-year-old international student. It says he suffered injuries to his chest, mouth, arms and legs. The attackers allegedly ripped off his turban and dragged him across the sidewalk by his hair.

Kelowna Coun. Mohini Singh said in media interviews, she felt it was a hate crime.

On Tuesday, March 21, RCMP issued an update on their investigation, saying they have added more resources, including members of the Kelowna RCMP General Investigation Services Team who have taken conduct of the file.

“Investigators are currently conducting extensive video canvassing and continue to ask the public to provide any dash camera video from the area on March 17, 2023 between 10:15 p.m. and 10:45.p.m.,” Cpl. Michael Gauthier, stated.

Investigators have offered the support of Kelowna RCMP Victim Services to the victim.

“The Kelowna RCMP have identified a suspect group, however no arrests have been made. While the motivation for the assault, and the details surrounding it, are still being investigated by police, the BC Hate Crimes Team has been engaged to ensure that any hate elements, if any, are properly identified and investigated,” Gauthier added.

BC Transit is also providing necessary evidence to the police.

“It is imperative that we conduct our investigations methodically and thoroughly to obtain all available evidence” Kelowna Regional RCMP Inspector Rob Pikola said.

“We condemn this incident and take all acts of violence in our community very seriously.”

The GoFundMe to help with Singh’s recovery has so far raised over $21,000.