SURREY, B.C. — A well-known Surrey businessman was fatally shot at his farm on Wednesday, sending shockwaves through the local Punjabi community and prompting a major homicide investigation. Binder Garcha, owner of Studio-12 photography and the Empress Palace Ballroom, was killed around 12:05 p.m. at his property on 176 Street. The victim’s body remained at the scene as investigators worked to piece together the circumstances of the shooting. Garcha was a familiar figure in the region’s photography industry and operated the Empress Palace Ballroom, a popular banquet hall located in Surrey’s Payal Business Centre.The Homicide Investigation Team (HIT) has taken over the case from Surrey Police, indicating the serious nature of the incident. Investigators continue to comb the farm for evidence.
In what may be a related development, a burned vehicle was discovered in South Surrey following the shooting, though police have not confirmed a connection.
The motive for the killing remains unclear, but the death of another established Punjabi businessman has left the community shaken. The incident marks the latest in a series of violent incidents affecting business owners in the region. Police are asking anyone with information to contact HIT or Crime Stoppers.
This is a developing story. More information will be provided as it becomes available.