The Consulate General of India, New York, on Monday (IST), expressed condolences over the recent killing of 27-year-old Gurdeep Singh by an unidentified shooter in New York.
In a post on X, the Consulate General of India wrote, “We are deeply saddened to learn about the untimely demise of Mr. Gurdeep Singh, an Indian national, who tragically lost his life in a shooting incident in Brooklyn, New York. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family during this difficult time. The Consulate is in touch with the family and is extending all possible assistance.”
Here’s what we know about Singh’s killing
Singh, who had been living in the for 13 years, was reportedly shot dead after an altercation on the night of 21 August (local time). A resident of Queens, he was shot near Stanley Avenue in the East New York neighbourhood while delivering pizza.
At around 10 pm, police said they received a 911 call reporting a shooting on Crescent Street near Stanley Avenue. When officers arrived, they said they found a man who had been shot in the chest. The victim was taken to a hospital by paramedics but was later pronounced dead.
According to a CBS News report, the suspect fled the scene after the incident. Surveillance footage obtained by the news outlet reportedly showed two people fighting in the street, followed by a flash of light that appeared to be gunshots. One person then fell to the ground, while the other got into a car and fled the scene.
While police spent hours searching for evidence in the neighbourhood, no arrests have been made so far.
The shooting is believed to have occurred during an attempted robbery. More information is expected to come to light as the City police continue their investigation.
Eyewitness narrates incident
An eyewitness identified as Anthony Santos, who works nearby, told CBS that he heard around six gunshots, adding that at first he thought they were fireworks until he saw an ambulance.
He said, “Absolutely, like, shocked. Like, I’m afraid,” and added, “I gotta be careful now around here with the shootings and stuff.”
Gurdeep Singh’s family seeks justice
On 23 August, NDTV reported that Singh travelled to the US after taking a loan, hoping to earn a living and provide a better future for his parents in India.
His father, Pyara Lal, said Singh had taken on significant debt to travel to the US but faced considerable hardships after arriving there. He said Singh worked tirelessly, day and night, to build a better life for his family.
News of his death sent shockwaves through Jabowal village, leaving his family devastated and in disbelief. Singh is survived by his father and brother. The family has appealed to the government to arrange for his body to be brought back to India as soon as possible. They have also urged US authorities to take all necessary steps to arrest the accused swiftly and ensure that the strictest possible punishment is given.
North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) calls for stronger action
On Sunday (local time), the US-based North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) expressed grief and concern over Singh’s killing. Satnam Singh Chahal, the executive director of NAPA, said the incident should not be treated as an isolated case, PTI reported.
He said, “Every time a young Punjabi or Sikh person is killed, a family is destroyed. We cannot allow repeated violence to become something the community simply learns to live with.” Chahal added, “Gurdeep Singh should not become just another name added to a growing list of victims. Enough is enough.”
The association also requested investigators to establish the exact motive behind Singh’s killing and cautioned against reaching conclusions before the probe is over.
(with agency inputs)
