WATCH: IHIT is investigating a deadly shooting in Burnaby and the suspect is still at large. Jill Bennett reports.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is still gathering evidence in connection to a fatal shooting in Burnaby Wednesday afternoon.
The shooting, which took place in the 7900-block of Wickham Place off Berkley Street, set into motion a series of events in Vancouver with police stepping up security at two works yards and other city sites, including city hall.
The victim is Hanif Jessa, who is believed to be a City of Vancouver street-cleaning superintendent based out of the Manitoba Works Yard. The City of Vancouver confirmed Jessa had worked for them for 25 years.
On Thursday morning, the flag outside the Manitoba work yard was lowered to half-mast and operations are returning to normal.
In a statement Thursday morning, Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson said:
We are shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden and tragic murder yesterday of a long-time City employee at his home in Burnaby. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends.
This is obviously a very disturbing event for City staff, particularly those who knew and worked with our colleague. We are offering counseling and support services to employees who request it, and we will continue to coordinate with the VPD while the matter is under investigation.
WATCH: A fatal shooting in Burnaby led to a strong police presence around city facilities in Vancouver.
Neighbours say they heard gunshots ring out around noon on Thursday.
“I heard some really angry yelling from my backyard; it was quite intense,” said resident Lynda Kingsley. “I didn’t know what it was. Then I heard a single pop and then some more yelling and then a few more pops.”
Two ambulances responded, and the victim was transferred to Royal Columbian Hospital in critical condition. He was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
Investigators focused on a black SUV parked to the right of the cul-de-sac. The backseat window on the driver’s side of the SUV appeared to be blown out. At least a dozen evidence markers and what looked like clothing was on the pavement just beyond the driver’s door.
WATCH: Burnaby RCMP on Wickham Place shooting investigation
The Burnaby shooting set off a flurry of police activity in Vancouver.
The City of Vancouver evacuated the Manitoba Works Yard, and officers were stationed at the National Works Yard. VPD also provided additional security at city hall in the hours after the homicide.
The City sent some employees home and cancelled some night shifts.
During a press conference Wednesday afternoon, Burnaby RCMP Cpl. Daniela Panesar said they are working with the Vancouver Police Department on the investigation, but did not comment on whether the increased security in Vancouver was related to the homicide.
“For me to suggest anything is premature at this stage,” said Panesar.
IHIT has not located any witnesses and is asking anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the homicide to contact them at 1-877-551-IHIT.
Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly identified the suspect as a City of Vancouver employee.
-with files from Jeremy Hunka and Canadian Press
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