Two Punjab students, Gaganpreet Singh and Jagdeep Singh, both Indian nationals, have been convicted of a hit-and-run incident that took place in January 2024 in Surrey, Canada. The two men ran over 45-year-old Jason Albert Gray with their vehicle, dragged him for about 1.3 kilometers, and then dumped his body on the road. Both will be deported after serving their prison terms.
Incident details
The accident occurred at approximately 1:38 AM on January 27, 2024, on University Drive in Surrey. Gaganpreet Singh was riding a red Ford Mustang, which belonged to Jagdeep Singh. Allegedly he hit Jason Albert Gray, a 45-year-old Canadian resident.
Garry was also a father and a husband. Rather than pull over, Gaganpreet drove on, dragging Gray underneath the car for approximately 1.3 kilometers.
Witnesses had called 911 when they spotted a man in the road being pulled by the vehicle. Gaganpreet and Jagdeep later pulled over at a distance, got out of the car, removed Gray's body, and left.
Legal proceedings and sentencing
Gaganpreet Singh and Jagdeep Singh on February 7, 2025, and January 6, 2025, respectively, pleaded guilty in Surrey Provincial Court to dangerous driving, failing to stop after an accident, and tampering with a deceased body. On May 22, 2025, both were sentenced:
- Gaganpreet Singh: Three years' imprisonment and three-year driving prohibition
- Jagdeep Singh: Four years' imprisonment and three-year driving prohibition
Reaction of the victim's family
While speaking to the court, Jason Gray's wife explained, "They treated my husband like rubbish and threw him onto the street." She added that Gray, being an Indigenous man, was deprived of his funeral as per his traditional culture. The family referred to the event as "unimaginable and heartless."
Deportation process
Both convicts had entered Canada on student visas. The court has directed both to be deported after completing their sentences. The Canada Border Services Agency has already made deportation proceedings.
The mishap has brought into sharp focus the dire repercussions of drunken driving and the role of international students in Canada. The quick legal process and deportation of the convicts reflect the gravity of the crime and the effect it has on the victim's family and society at large.