B.C. Daily Digest — Jan 14, 2026

B.C. ends three-year drug decriminalization pilot — key facts

• The provincial government announced the end of the 3-year pilot launched in 2023.
• Health Minister Josie Osborne said the "toxic-drug crisis" continues and that ending the pilot does not end efforts to save lives.
• The pilot aimed to reduce criminalization and improve access to services; no single solution was cited.

Woman dies after police-involved shooting in Burnaby — key facts

• Incident overnight near Carleton Ave and Oxford St; IIO BC is investigating.
• Officers responded to a call about a person in distress; police fired shots and a woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
• Neighbours reported multiple gunshots; investigators are collecting witness statements and evidence.

Surrey homicide victim identified; not linked to gang conflict — key facts

• Victim: Baljinder “Binder” Singh Garcha, 46, of Surrey.
• Found Jan. 13 just after 12:00 p.m. in the 3500 block of 176 Street with apparent gunshot wounds; pronounced dead at scene.
• Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has taken over; early investigative steps say no connection to the ongoing B.C. gang conflict.

Another extortion-related shooting in Surrey — key facts

• Shots fired just after 2:00 a.m. near 80th St and King George Blvd; front of Bojhan Sweets and Restaurant damaged.
• Bullet holes visible; no injuries reported.
• Surrey major crime section treating incident as linked to a series of extortions; police ask for dashcam footage.

Overpass strike delays Highway 1 eastbound in Surrey — key facts

• A commercial truck towing an excavator struck the 192 overpass on Highway 1 eastbound.
• Eastbound right lane was closed; BC Highway Patrol and CVSE on scene investigating and coordinating repairs.
• Motorists advised to expect delays; structural damage was visibly obvious.

More than 20 dogs removed in Merritt animal-neglect rescue — key facts

• Angel’s Animal Rescue and the BC SPCA rescued about 20+ dogs found living in feces at a Merritt property.
• Neighbours had complained; city bylaw limits residences to no more than 2 dogs.
• Rescuers publicly criticized city officials for an alleged delayed response; Mayor disputed those claims.