Charges laid in fatal QEII Highway shooting near Leduc

Alberta RCMP have laid a second-degree murder charge in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred on the Queen Elizabeth II Highway south of Leduc earlier this month.

Police confirmed the victim has been identified as 22-year-old Birinder Singh. The shooting happened on March 14 at approximately 2:50 p.m. near Township Road 490.

According to RCMP, a witness reported seeing a white or grey pickup truck pull alongside a black 2012 Honda Civic before speeding away at a high rate of speed. Moments later, the Civic pulled over to the side of the highway. Investigators later determined that a weapon had been discharged toward the vehicle, resulting in the death of the driver.

The Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit has since taken carriage of the investigation. Officers have been seeking assistance from the public, particularly anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have dashcam footage from Highway 2 at the time of the shooting.

Police also confirmed that a grey 2022 Ford F-150 believed to have been driven by the suspect was located during the investigation.

On March 21, RCMP arrested 18-year-old Lloydminster resident Jimmy Gassner in Canoe Lake, Saskatchewan. He has been charged with second-degree murder and has been remanded into custody. He is expected to be transported back to Alberta, where a future court date will be set.

Staff Sgt. John Brown of the Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit said that while charges have been laid, investigators are still limited in what information can be released.

“Despite the laying of these charges, we know that there will be many questions regarding suspects and motivations,” Brown said. “Please understand that our ability to answer these questions is limited while our officers continue their important work.”

Police have indicated the investigation remains ongoing and additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Leduc RCMP at 780-980-7267. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers.