Avtar Singh (archive photo)
Avtar Singh, a 57-year-old Sikh temple volunteer, was killed in California after being kidnapped earlier this month, authorities said. He was found dead days after he was reported missing.In a startling development, 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 murder.“This was not a random act,” Withrow said. “They were targeted by someone else for a specific reason and we hope that reason will come to light.” Authorities did not reveal further details about the motive or how Singh ended up in Napa County.Singh, a long-time sevadar and cook at the Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash complex in Tracy, was reported missing on February 17 after he was 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 wearing dark clothing with Singh, and he appeared to enter the vehicle against his will. His wife notified authorities later that evening when he did not return home.
The couple’s six-month-old triplets were found alone at their residence inside the temple complex, according to KTVU. Three days later, Singh’s body was discovered near Lake Berryessa in Napa County, about 100 miles from Tracy and about a two-hour drive. The vehicle believed to be involved was also found at the scene. Confirming the development, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office said Monday: “It is with deep sadness that we confirm that the kidnapping victim, Avtar Singh, has been found dead.
Our investigators are working tirelessly to investigate this case and identify those responsible for this terrible act.Addressing members of the gurdwara, San Joaquin District Attorney Ron Freitas described Singh as an innocent victim. “In no way was he responsible for the evil that befell him,” Freitas said, while also urging anyone with information to come forward, highlighting that there are “people who have seen things, and people who know things.”Singh was widely known within the Sikh community for his service and humility. He has served for years in institutions associated with Damdami Taksal, including at 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 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 left a deep void.His funeral is scheduled to be held at Fry Memorial Church, followed by prayer and a communal meal at the gurdwara. Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances of the kidnapping and murder, while urging anyone with relevant information to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office.
