Kamal Ghorui
A 57-year-old Sikh temple volunteer, Avtaar Singh was killed in California after being abducted earlier this month, authorities said. He was found dead days after he was reported missing.In a startling twist, officials have now confirmed that Singh was not the intended target of the kidnapping that led to his death.San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow told local media that Singh was not the intended target of the kidnapping and homicide.“This was not a random act,” Withrow said. “They were targeted after another individual for a specific reason and we’re hoping that reason comes to light.” Authorities have not disclosed further details about the motive or how Singh ended up in Napa County.Singh, a longtime sevadaar and cook at the Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash complex in Tracy, was reported missing on February 17 after he was allegedly abducted from the temple premises in the afternoon. Surveillance footage reviewed by the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office showed a white SUV and three individuals dressed in dark clothing with Singh and he appeared to have entered the vehicle against his will. His wife alerted authorities later that evening when he did not return home. The couple’s six-month-old triplets were found alone at their residence within the temple complex, according to KTVU. Three days later, Singh’s body was discovered near Lake Berryessa in Napa County, nearly 100 miles from Tracy and about a two-hour drive away. The vehicle believed to be involved was also located at the scene. Confirming the development, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office said on Monday, “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the kidnapping victim, Avtar Singh, has been located deceased. Our detectives are working tirelessly to investigate this case and identify those responsible for this terrible act.”Addressing members of the gurdwara congregation, San Joaquin District Attorney Ron Freitas described Singh as an innocent victim. “He was in no way responsible for the evil that came to him,” Freitas said, while also urging anyone with information to come forward, highlighting that there are “people who saw things, people who know things.”Singh was widely known within the Sikh community for his service and humility. He had served for years at institutions linked to Damdami Taksal, including at the Tracy gurdwara where he resided and worked as a cook. Community members described him as dependable and selfless, someone who could be counted on to fix anything around the property. A fundraiser organised to support his family described him as known for his “humility, quiet dedication, and loving nature that made everyone feel like family,” adding that his absence has left a profound void.His funeral is scheduled to be held at Fry Memorial Chapel, followed by prayers and a community meal at the gurdwara. Investigators continue to probe the circumstances of the abduction and killing, while urging anyone with relevant information to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office.
