News release

IHIT identifies Abbotsford shooting victim

March 26, 2026 - Abbotsford, British Columbia
From: IHIT

Content

IHIT File # 2026-321

Background:

On March 23, 2026, at approximately 11:11 p.m., Abbotsford Police Patrol officers responded to a report of a shooting at the Whatcom Road Park & Ride, which currently hosts a large homeless encampment.

Upon arrival, officers secured the area and located a man suffering from serious, life-threatening injuries. He was transported to hospital; however, despite medical efforts, he did not survive.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) deployed and assumed conduct of the investigation. 

IHIT continued to work in close partnership with the Abbotsford Police Department’s Major Crime Unit, Forensic Identification Service (FIS), and the BC Coroners Services.

Update:

In an effort to advance the investigation, IHIT is identifying the victim as 69-year-old Wayne Versfelt of Abbotsford.

Investigators believe this was an isolated and targeted incident involving residents at the encampment. Persons of interest have been identified, and homicide investigators continue their efforts in locating the individuals and to determine their roles in the shooting. While the motivation is still under investigation, the shooting is not believed to be related to gang activity or extortions.

“This is a tight-knit community, and we believe there are those with knowledge of the shooting who have yet to speak with police,” says Sgt. Freda Fong of IHIT. “Homicide investigators are still in the area and now is the time to do the right thing.”

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. 

Contacts