Man arrested after fatal stabbing near South Surrey mall
Victim identified as 45-year-old Surrey resident Delphin Paul Prestbakmo
Police in Surrey say they have taken one man into custody in connection with the fatal stabbing near Semiahmoo Shopping Centre early Friday.
At around 3 a.m. PT, officers responded to a call from a witness who reported seeing someone lying in a parking lot in the 1700 block of 152 Street.
The victim had suffered "grievous injuries" and by the time officers arrived he had died, said Cpl. Frank Jang with the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team at a media briefing later Friday morning.
The scene was quickly taped off and Surrey RCMP contacted the homicide team. As of 11:30 a.m. PT, Jang said the scene was still roped off and the body was still in place.
At the briefing, Jang said investigators arrested one man near the scene of the stabbing.
Later on Friday evening, IHIT identified the victim as 45-year-old Surrey resident Delphin Paul Prestbakmo.
Investigation turns to nearby home
The investigation has now turned to a nearby home just two blocks away, which police believe is connected with the crime.
IHIT investigators said the homicide was likely targeted, so police don't believe there is a risk to the general public.
According to Jang, investigators believe others were involved in the crime, either directly or as bystanders. He said police would like to speak to them.
The suspect remains in custody but has not yet been charged.
Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-4448 or email ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.