A man found dead inside his Richmond business Friday evening has been identified as a notary public with no criminal record.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) said Saturday they found 58-year-old Stephen Chong’s body inside his office in the 8200-block of Granville Avenue around 5:30 p.m. Friday.
The office is located on the second floor of a strip mall. A police presence remained at the mall throughout Saturday morning and into the afternoon.
Investigators are deeming the death suspicious, and do not believe it to be random.
IHIT adds they are fully engaged, and its investigators are working closely with the Richmond RCMP.
According to the website for his business, Chong had over 10 years experience in the industry with many positive reviews.
On Friday night, neighbour Robert Convey said seeing the large police presence in his normally quiet community was “a little concerning.”
“Obviously, when there’s this many police and fire trucks and stuff outside your building it’s not too comforting,” he said.
Investigators are now looking to speak to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area.
Anyone with information is asked to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or Crime Stoppers.