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Update: Married couple named in double homicide investigation near Cook elementary

Police and IHIT found two bodies after residents heard gun fire around 2:30 a.m. April 30

The bodies, of Keri Smith, 36, and Terrence Peter Smith, 37, were found inside a detached home across the street from Cook elementary park after Richmond RCMP responded to reports of gun fire on Eckersley Road at 2:30 a.m. Monday morning.

Homicide investigators are now probing a possible double murder.

“It’s early in the investigation but we do believe this was a targeted hit,” said Cpl. Frank Jang, spokesperson for the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).

Jang said both victims are known to police, but did not elaborate to media how they are known to police. The victims were said to be living in the house, at 6631 Eckersley Road, after moving from Surrey. They have ties to Vernon. IHIT released their names and a photo of them Tuesday to "further the investigation."

Jang did not elaborate on how the victims died, such as whether or not they were shot to death.

Jang said the crime scene will take days to investigate.

After 2017 marked a rash of homicides in Richmond — eight in total — these victims represent the first two in the city in 2018.

On the fringes of Richmond’s City Centre area, Eckersley Road is transitioning from a detached home neighbourhood to a street lined with townhouses. As such, many of the homes are in derelict condition. The house in question sold in January 2016 for $1.8 million and is now assessed at $2.2 million.

Police tape cordoned off the area as school children walked past during the Monday rush.

“I do understand the concerns of parents,” said Jang.

“But I would just tell everyone to be vigilant and be mindful of your personal safety at all times,” he said.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the IHIT Tipline at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihittipline@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact CrimeStoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).