The man found dead near a popular children’s playpark on Monday morning has been named by police as 28-year-old Richmond resident Muzaffer Darwaish.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) say Darwaish, who was known to police, died of gunshot wounds.
Going by the evidence thus far, IHIT believes the death was a targeted hit and are treating it as a homicide.
Darwaish, whose body was discovered near the Terra Nova Adventure Park at around 6:30 a.m. on Monday, was last seen leaving his Richmond home on Sunday evening.
“It is still early in the investigation, but Mr. Darwaish’s murder does not appear to be associated to any other homicides, or recent acts of violence,” said IHIT’s Cpl. Meghan Foster, in reference to the fact that the death appears to be Richmond’s fifth homicide in 2017.
On Monday, the area surrounding Terra Nova Rural Park’s north entrance, at the far west tip of River Road, was sealed off by police.
The area where the body was found is popular with walkers, joggers, families and picnickers.
Anyone with information about the investigation is asked to call the IHIT tipline at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihittipline@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
