Gang Member Harpreet Uppal and 11-Year-Old Son Shot Outside Edmonton Fast-Food Restaurant

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Gang Violence Escalates in Edmonton as Known Member and Son Targeted in Shocking Lunchtime Shooting

EDMONTON — In a horrifying act of violence, a well-known gang member and his 11-year-old son were gunned down outside a fast-food restaurant in Edmonton on Thursday. The police have confirmed that the boy was deliberately targeted and killed, while another young boy of the same age, a friend of the deceased child, narrowly escaped unharmed.

Acting Superintendent Colin Derksen addressed the media on Friday, expressing his shock and dismay at the callousness displayed by the perpetrators. He emphasized that this incident, which unfolded during the busy lunch hour at a crowded restaurant and gas station, serves as a poignant reminder of the escalating gang violence in the city.

“The landscape has changed out there,” said Derksen, “There’s no longer any respect for children, families, or innocent citizens amongst our gangsters when they carry out violence to further their own interests.”

The police have identified the victim’s father as 41-year-old Harpreet Uppal, a prominent figure in the gang drug world. Derksen revealed that law enforcement authorities had made several attempts in the past to persuade Uppal to leave the criminal lifestyle and ensure the safety of him and his family.

“We had worked very hard over the years to try to warn and give him opportunities to step out of that lifestyle and keep him and his family safe,” Derksen stated.

This heartbreaking incident follows a previous attempt on Uppal’s life two years ago at a pizza restaurant, further underscoring the dangerous environment in which he operated.

Currently, the police are investigating possible connections between Thursday’s shooting and a burned-out SUV discovered in close proximity to the crime scene. Although the vehicle was unoccupied, it may hold crucial clues that could aid in the ongoing investigation.

Derksen highlighted the alarming rise of gang-related violence in public places in recent years. So far in 2023, the police have responded to 196 shootings, representing a significant 46% increase compared to the same period last year. While these shootings predominantly involve gang activities, they pose an extreme risk to innocent bystanders.

“We’re lucky we’re not reporting on additional deaths or injuries today,” Derksen remarked, acknowledging the close proximity of a daycare to the shooting site.

As of now, no arrests have been made, leaving the community on edge and calling for justice to be served swiftly.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on November 10, 2023.

By Bob Weber and Jamin Mike, The Canadian Press.