California (Rajeev Sharma): Law enforcement officials in California are investigating the death of a Sikh man who was allegedly abducted from a gurdwara complex in Tracy earlier this month. The victim, 57-year-old Avtar Singh, had roots in Ludhiana, Punjab, and had been residing in the United States with his family for several years.
According to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, Singh was reported missing on the evening of February 17 after family members and associates raised concerns about his sudden disappearance. Deputies were dispatched to the 16000 block of West Grant Line Road at approximately 8:52 p.m. to begin inquiries.
Investigators later examined surveillance footage that reportedly captured three unidentified men, dressed in dark clothing, confronting Singh and forcing him into a white SUV before leaving the area. Images of the vehicle and the missing man were shared publicly as authorities sought help from residents to trace his whereabouts.
In a development that has left the community grieving, Singh’s body was subsequently located. Officials have not yet revealed details regarding where the remains were found or the preliminary findings on the cause of death. The investigation remains active as detectives work to establish what led to the fatal outcome.
The case also drew attention after Sikh religious figure Baba Harnam Singh Dhuma shared information about the incident, expressing sorrow over the loss.
Members of the local Sikh community in Tracy have described Singh as a devoted individual who served as a cook at the gurdwara and lived on its premises. Messages circulating online reflect both grief and shock, with several noting that his family recently welcomed newborn triplets.
Authorities are continuing efforts to identify and locate the suspects seen in the surveillance video. Officials have urged anyone with relevant information to contact investigators as they pursue leads in the case.
